Doug Wheeler: SA MI 75 DZ NY 12

Light art installation, infinity space, cool installation, cool art, Doug Wheeler, NYC, 2012Light art installation, infinity space, cool installation, cool art, Doug Wheeler, NYC, 2012, collabcubedLight art installation, infinity space, cool installation, cool art, Doug Wheeler, NYC, 2012, collabcubedClick to enlarge

After making a special trip with Em on Saturday, in the snowy cold, to see Doug Wheeler’s light installation titled SA MI 75 DZ NY 12 at the David Zwirner Gallery, we left promptly due to the crowded waiting area we descended upon and the one-hour wait ahead of us — I’m often deluded into thinking that I’m the only one who has these great ideas in NYC…but really, who goes to Chelsea on a frigid, snowy weekend? Apparently: a lot of people. — So, today, a Tuesday afternoon, I thought I’d quickly pop in but, alas, there would be no popping in. There was still a half-hour wait but, seating was available and the musical-chairs-style line kept me active.

Now, back to the exhibit: Amazing. The bright white light installation is the closest thing to what, I imagine, standing in a cloud might feel like. The first impression is that of a flat wall created by light. As one reluctantly steps forward—wearing the white booties provided by the gallery to keep things pristine—it feels as though you’re stepping into the void. The minute the light box is entered, all depth perception disappears. There’s a dense fog-like effect that’s created with light and white paint. The walls have been curved and the lack of hard lines or horizon intensifies the confusing sensation. The result is at first a little unsettling, but the incredible coolness instantly follows. The light in the box fluctuates emulating the light of day, from dawn to dusk, in a 32-minute loop.

If you’re in New York, you might want to check it out. Doug Wheeler’s installation is on view at David Zwirner through February 25, 2012. I recommend a weekday, if possible, for a shorter wait.

Photos courtesy of David Zwirner; Carolina A. Miranda; and soulellis’ flickr.

12 thoughts on “Doug Wheeler: SA MI 75 DZ NY 12

  1. One can also have the same sensation by walking around your room at night with your eyes closed.

    *stubs toe* heck!

  2. Amazing work! Funny how people talk so diminishing about it, until they’ve experienced it. Thanks for the post.

Leave a comment