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A major light installation by US artist James Turrell is set to transform the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and complete the original vision for the structure in its 10th year anniversary.

Explaining that the commission will be a milestone for the venue, GOMA Director Chris Saines stated “in 2002, after Architectus + Davenport Campbell won the international competition to design the Gallery of Modern Art, lead architects Kerry Clare, Lindsay Clare and James Jones envisaged an artist-illuminated ‘white box’ on the building’s main pedestrian approaches.

“While GOMA’s vast container for light was built, it has been unlit - until now. Turrell’s architectural light installation will activate the potential of this white box facade and realise the architects’ original design intention for GOMA.”

Saines said the installation will transform the way local and international audiences will experience GOMA by night.

Saines added “it has the potential to be a major cultural tourism drawcard, with many of Turrell’s works throughout the world becoming artistic pilgrimage sites for his followers.”

The installation will illuminate GOMA’s exterior from early December, with Queensland Premier and Arts Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk saying it will be unprecedented in scale.

Premier Palaszczuk stated “James Turrell has an extraordinary international reputation and following, which is well matched to GOMA’s significance as a cultural and architectural landmark.

“The permanent installation promises to showcase the building to its full potential and will see GOMA added to the impressive list of ‘destination artworks’ Turrell has created around the world.”

The Queensland Government had contributed funds towards the development of the ambitious commission and GOMA has been fortunate to receive an outstanding lead donation from Paul and Susan Taylor, and a generous contribution from the Neilson Foundation.

Images: James Turrell's illuminations at GOMA.

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