In the world of elite private schools, Friends Seminary is making waves with its latest addition: a James Turrell Skyspace. Known for their top-notch amenities, these prestigious schools are no stranger to impressive facilities, but Friends Seminary has gone above and beyond by bringing in a Skyspace from the acclaimed master of light. Located on the sixth floor, this perception-altering meeting room opens its roof to the sky, bathing the space in a spectrum of shifting radiant color. What sets this Skyspace apart is that it is not only for the students and teachers but also accessible to the public, providing a unique opportunity for everyone to partake in Turrell’s transformative art. This captivating installation, titled “Leading,” will be open to the public starting March 1 on select Fridays at sunset.
Introduction
In the world of elite private schools, there are a variety of amenities and offerings that set them apart from their counterparts. However, Friends Seminary in Manhattan has unveiled a rare and extraordinary addition to its campus: a James Turrell Skyspace. This perception-altering meeting room, titled “Leading,” is the only Skyspace attached to an active K-12 school and the first of Turrell’s experiments in Manhattan that is accessible to the public. This article will explore the significance of this Skyspace and its implications for education.
The Elite World of Private Schools
Private schools are renowned for providing exclusive opportunities and amenities to their students. These institutions often boast state-of-the-art facilities, personalized college guidance, and impressive student-to-teacher ratios. Friends Seminary, a Quaker school located in Manhattan, is no exception. However, alongside these traditional offerings, Friends Seminary has elevated the standard by incorporating an exceptional artwork into its campus.
Friends Seminary: A Quaker School
Friends Seminary is deeply inspired by the Quaker mission, which prioritizes seeking the light within every individual. Quaker values, such as simplicity, integrity, and community, permeate the education offered at Friends Seminary. The school fosters an environment that encourages self-reflection, personal growth, and a sense of connection to others. The addition of the James Turrell Skyspace aligns perfectly with the Quaker philosophy of seeking inner illumination.
James Turrell: Master of Light
James Turrell is an internationally acclaimed artist known for his ability to manipulate and shape light within physical spaces. His artworks often challenge perception, creating immersive experiences that evoke a sense of wonder and introspection. Turrell’s creations, known as Skyspaces, utilize apertures to the sky that merge natural light with artificial color, creating a captivating display that alters one’s perception of the surrounding environment.
The Unique Skyspace at Friends Seminary
Located on the sixth floor of Friends Seminary, the Skyspace created by James Turrell is a remarkable addition to the school’s campus. Titled “Leading,” this Skyspace features a roof that opens to the sky, allowing an influx of natural light to flood the space below. The light is then carefully manipulated to create a spectrum of radiant colors, which give the impression that a slice of the sky is floating within the installation. This unique juxtaposition of natural and artificial elements captivates viewers and encourages contemplation.
Experience and Reactions
Since the Skyspace’s unveiling, both students and teachers at Friends Seminary have had the opportunity to experience the artwork firsthand. Many have found solace and inspiration within the space, utilizing it for meditation sessions and moments of quiet reflection. Reactions to the Skyspace have been mixed, with some individuals expressing excitement over the significant addition to the school, while others initially felt a sense of unease regarding the presence of such a notable artwork within their daily environment.
The Invitation and Fundraising
The conception and construction of the James Turrell Skyspace at Friends Seminary were made possible by the vision and dedication of Robert Lauder, the school’s head. Lauder, himself a practicing Quaker, extended an invitation to Turrell to create a work for the school. In order to fund the project, Lauder and the Friends Seminary community embarked on a fundraising campaign, which successfully raised approximately $3.9 million for the Skyspace’s construction. Turrell generously donated his design and consultation time, further supporting the realization of his artwork.
Opening to the Public
While the Skyspace initially served as a unique addition to the campus for Friends Seminary students and teachers, it has now opened its doors to the public. Starting from March 1, on select Fridays, visitors have the opportunity to experience the captivating Skyspace and immerse themselves in Turrell’s mesmerizing display of light and color. This unprecedented access allows a broader audience to engage with the artwork and witness its transformative power.
Implications for Education
The inclusion of a James Turrell Skyspace within an active K-12 school has profound implications for education. By integrating art into the everyday environment of students, Friends Seminary fosters a culture of creativity, contemplation, and wonder. The Skyspace serves as a constant reminder of the importance of art and self-reflection, encouraging students to explore their own perspectives and engage with the world around them in a more thoughtful and introspective manner.
Conclusion
The James Turrell Skyspace at Friends Seminary represents a groundbreaking addition to the world of private schools. Its unique combination of natural and artificial light creates a perception-altering experience that captivates all who enter. As the first Skyspace in Manhattan accessible to the public, it opens up new possibilities for engaging with art and encourages a deeper exploration of one’s own perception. The Skyspace stands as a symbol of the value of art within education and its ability to inspire and transform.
