James Yamada: The summer shelter retreats darkly among the trees
Date uploaded: December 12, 2011
James Yamada: The summer shelter retreats darkly among the trees
Parasolstice – Winter Light 2011
22 November 2011 – 18 March 2012
On 22nd November 2011, London-based foundation for contemporary art Parasol unit unveiled the first artwork in its Parasolstice – Winter Light series of outdoor projects to be realised by various international artists, each of whom creates sculptural works that address the phenomenon of light. The works will be exhibited throughout the winter months in the foundation’s outdoor space, which will be open to the public free of charge. When invited to collaborate on the first project, American artist James Yamada created a dramatic installation entitled The summer shelter retreats darkly among the trees. The work was launched on 22nd November 2011 and will be open Tuesday - Sunday until 18th March 2012.
The aluminium structure of Yamada’s installation both shelters visitors from bad weather and offers them some privacy. Integrated into its rooftop are various light elements at 10,000 lux, which is the sunlight-mimicking intensity referred to as ‘full spectrum light’. This is the light commonly used in light therapy to treat the symptoms of SAD (seasonal affective disorder). The focus of The summer shelter retreats darkly among the trees is to involve visitors in an uplifting and insightful experience. During the darkest months of the year, they are encouraged to enjoy the benefits of exposure to bright light.
James Yamada has forged a reputation for making ingenious constructions that create encounters between nature and technology. In The summer shelter retreats darkly among the trees the artist highlights how recent technology benefits mankind by helping to prevent illness.
The exhibition is supported by Arts Council England.
