Artwork > Negative Matter

negative matter
Negative Matter
industrial stroboscope, high-velocity fan, motion detector, metal studs, Luaun plywood, hardware
20 x 10 x 8 feet
2011



For many years I have been interested in the work of artists James Turrell, Olafur Eliasson, and Anish Kapoor, which often concern challenging a viewer’s inclination to unquestioningly trust their sense of sight. The works of Eliasson and Turrell in particular often completely immerse the viewer in a controlled environment, making a person keenly aware of both the wonders and limitations of their perception. I was also intrigued a few years ago by the dynamic experiences and visual play created through limiting and controlling vantage points in the amusement rides at Disneyland. It was in the midst of ruminating on these influences that the specific idea for Negative Matter emerged.