Design Matters with Debbie Millman: Episode Summary Featuring Olafur Eliasson
Release Date: November 4, 2024
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Design Matters with Debbie Millman, host Debbie Millman engages in an in-depth conversation with renowned artist Olafur Eliasson. Known for his mesmerizing installations that intersect art, nature, and human perception, Eliasson delves into his creative journey, personal experiences, and his latest project, LifeWorld. This summary captures the essence of their dialogue, highlighting key discussions, insights, and notable quotes.
Early Life and Upbringing
Olafur Eliasson's formative years in Copenhagen, born to Icelandic immigrants, laid the foundation for his artistic vision. Growing up in a household where creativity was nurtured, Eliasson reflects on the influence of his parents and the Icelandic environment.
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Family Heritage and Diversity
"In Iceland, you have this sort of the Book of Icelanders... I have a bit of Mediterranean genetic pool as well."
(05:14) -
Impact of Icelandic Nature
"I had the opportunity to be in nature. And this is where my relationship with Icelandic nature actually started."
(13:16)
Eliasson reminisces about a pivotal childhood memory during the 1970s oil crisis, where electricity rationing led his family to gather by the window to witness the twilight sky's transformation.
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Memorable Experiences
"There is a certain moment of presence and then the warmth of a memory that you carry with you into life."
(17:07)
Artistic Beginnings and Breakdancing
Eliasson's artistic inclinations manifested early, evident from his first solo art show at age 15. Remarkably, his initial passion was breakdancing, where he even won a Scandinavian championship with his trio, the Harlem Gun Crew.
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First Solo Exhibition
"These drawings, they must be around, or maybe not now."
(21:06)
Transitioning from dance to visual art, Eliasson shares anecdotes about his experiences in New York City during his adolescence, including a memorable encounter in Times Square that inspired his later works.
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Breakdancing to Art School
"I have been very interested in how now my interest in psychology has evolved and my relationship with space..."
(34:01)
Development of Artistic Philosophy
Eliasson's exploration into gestalt psychology and phenomenology profoundly influenced his approach to art. He emphasizes the importance of the viewer's experience and perception in creating meaningful art.
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Conceptual Thinking and Relativity
"Reality is relative to how you actually see it or where you are seeing it from."
(39:26) -
Dematerialization of Art
"I was very much inspired... I started to take away the focus on the solid, the non-negotiable."
(34:01)
He recounts creating his first "rainbow machine," illustrating his commitment to making art that responds to and engages the viewer's perception.
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Interactive Art Creation
"If you're not looking at it, then there is no angle anymore."
(34:01)
Eliasson also discusses his philosophy on public spaces and their role in fostering community and personal reflection.
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Public Space as a Cultural Arena
"A public space honors or holds vulnerability in its foreground."
(56:56)
Current Projects: LifeWorld
As We Transfer's 2024 guest curator, Eliasson introduces LifeWorld, a public, site-specific, reflective video installation displayed on billboards in major cities like London, Seoul, Berlin, and soon, Times Square in New York City.
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Concept and Execution
"I just filmed it 10 minutes of each out of focus, but more out of focus on the screens..."
(56:56) -
Philosophical Underpinnings
"I believe that a great public space honors or holds vulnerability in its foreground vulnerability."
(58:29)
Eliasson elaborates on how LifeWorld encourages viewers to engage with their perceptions and emotions, fostering a sense of shared humanity and personal narrative.
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Encouraging Narrative Creation
"We are producers of our own realities. I don't think we are without, you know, pressure from our surroundings."
(47:23) -
Impact on Public Interaction
"This project is about... honoring the need for the two of you to actually come together and be together without having to agree about everything."
(59:27)
Through LifeWorld, Eliasson aims to transform the bustling environment of Times Square into a reflective space where individuals can connect with their inner selves and each other.
Conclusion
Debbie Millman wraps up the conversation by acknowledging Eliasson's significant contributions to the art world and his transformative projects that make urban spaces more creative and introspective.
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Closing Remarks
"I want to thank you so much for making so much work that matters, for making New York City so much more creative over the decades."
(64:25)
Eliasson expresses his gratitude, emphasizing the honor of contributing to the global art community through endeavors like LifeWorld.
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Final Thoughts
"You're being master kind. Thank you so much. It's my honor to be here."
(64:47)
Notable Quotes
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On Honesty and Storytelling
"I need to release my honesty. I need to come through with my story."
(04:13) -
On Trusting the Viewer
"People are actually worth trusting when it comes to looking at art."
(02:23) -
On Public Space and Vulnerability
"A public space honors or holds vulnerability in its foreground."
(56:56) -
On Producing Reality
"We are producers of our own realities."
(47:23)
Further Information
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LifeWorld Project
To experience LifeWorld, visit WeTransfer.com. The installation will also debut in Times Square, New York City, on November 1st.
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Olafur Eliasson’s Work
Explore more about Olafur Eliasson's artistry and projects at olafureliasson.net.
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Auckland Art Gallery Retrospective
For those in New Zealand, a retrospective highlighting over 30 years of Eliasson's work will be available at the Auckland Art Gallery.
This episode of Design Matters offers a profound exploration of Olafur Eliasson's artistic journey, emphasizing the interplay between personal experiences, perceptual philosophy, and public art. Eliasson's insights invite listeners to reconsider their interactions with art and public spaces, fostering a deeper connection with their surroundings and inner selves.