Devon Booker, the renowned five-time All-Star guard for the Phoenix Suns, has made three visits to the iconic Roden Crater, an extraordinary art installation by James Turrell. Their connection has blossomed into a friendship, with Turrell praising Booker as an "amazing person" who elevates the artistic experience.
According to a detailed profile in The Athletic, a sports section of the New York Times, Booker's fascination with the Roden Crater began during his first visit in 2020. This unique artwork, situated in a dormant volcano, has been a lifelong project for Turrell, who has dedicated over five decades to its development. Booker is also excited about a potential visit with his teammate Steph Curry, who recently acquired a piece from Turrell, and has even designed a Nike basketball shoe that has captured the artist's attention.
Reflecting on his experiences at Roden Crater, Booker expressed a profound emotional connection: "My hair is sticking up on my arm just remembering every time I've been there. I don't know if you've ever felt like you were going to a different dimension, but it's like a portal that you're walking toward."
Turrell, who appreciates the art of basketball, remarked on the time investment required to fully appreciate such art forms, noting that they demand a different kind of engagement. He described meeting Booker as a thrilling experience, acknowledging the athlete's significant contributions to basketball and the Phoenix community.
Booker's diverse interests and distinctive taste have earned him a reputation as a connoisseur. Teammate Ryan Dunn commented on Booker's individuality, stating, "He wants to be Devin. He doesn't want to be nobody else." This uniqueness extends to his fashion, home, and art collection, showcasing his personal style.
For Booker, the experience of visiting places like Roden Crater offers valuable perspective, both in sports and life. He emphasized the importance of being present: "It just makes you super present. Not many times you get to be where your two feet are at and not think about anything else that's going on in the world."
