Light Art with Intent: Changing the perception of spaces and emotions through light.

Welcome to the brand new article series, where members of our team dive into a specific topic they want to explore and analyze.

We are starting the series with Alejandro Lizarralde talking about Light Art with Intent!

In the realm of art, where creativity knows no bounds, one movement emerged in the '60s that would forever transform the way we perceive and interact with light. The enchanting world of LightArt, where science meets artistic expression, and where the boundaries of human perception are pushed beyond imagination.

The journey into the captivating world of LightArt begins with a pivotal moment in 1952, when Richard Kelly, often hailed as the godfather of lighting design, dared to compare light to art. He painted a vivid picture, not with strokes of a brush but with layers of light. In this masterpiece, he divided the canvas into three distinct layers, each mirroring the layers of the human experience with light.

The first layer, known as the focal glow, is a radiant beacon that draws the attention of the viewer. Just as a moth is irresistibly drawn to a flame, our eyes are naturally captivated by this luminous focal point. It's the sparkle in a diamond, the twinkle in the stars, the shimmering glint that compels us to look closer. In the realm of psychophysiology, it's the element that awakens our senses and beckons us to explore.

As we delve deeper into Kelly's masterpiece, we encounter ambient luminescence. This layer envelops us in a soothing embrace, like a warm blanket on a chilly night. It's the gentle wash of light that bathes a space in a soft, uniform illumination. In the world of perception, it lulls us into a sense of calm and tranquility, evoking feelings of serenity and limitless space.

The final layer, the play of brilliants, is a symphony of optic excitement. Those are the sharp, intricate details that ignite our optic nerves, creating a dynamic and entertaining spectacle. Like the fireworks displayed in the night sky, they mesmerize and enchant, leaving an indelible mark on our senses. It's the dynamism in stillness, the vibrant pulse of a static image.

These layers and elements, as depicted by Kelly, are not just mere artistic expressions. They serve as a window into the workings of human perception, offering insights into how our minds respond to the interplay of light and space.

The Light Art movement, inspired by Kelly's pioneering vision, embraced these elements to redefine our perception of the world around us. Light, in the realm of Light Art and Light Design, became more than just illumination; it became a powerful tool to shape our experiences.

In the world of Light Art, as well as in the broader context of Light Design, light, and lighting took on a multifaceted role. They became the sculptors of perceptual and experiential spaces, illuminating, highlighting, and marking objects. Light revealed spatial and symbolic pathways, guiding our gaze and thoughts. It became the artist's brush, painting emotions and narratives with its radiant strokes.

But the story doesn't end there. The fusion of technology with the art of light has opened up new frontiers. Dynamic and coloured light, unconfined to the realms of nature, now invade our spaces.?

Hospitals, offices, and museums have embraced this transformation, adapting their interiors to transport us into the heart of nature itself.

• ?In the sterile confines of hospitals, where illness and anxiety often prevail, dynamic lighting has become a beacon of hope. It mimics the changing hues of daylight, creating an environment that resonates with our innate connection to the natural world. Patients are no longer confined within cold, clinical walls; they are transported to serene meadows, tranquil beaches, and lush forests. This immersion in nature accelerates healing, offering a glimpse into the ancient roots of our evolution.
• In the corporate world, where innovation and creativity are prized, dynamic lighting has emerged as a game-changer. It shifts office spaces from monotonous cubicles to vibrant, energizing environments. As the day progresses, the lighting adapts, mirroring the changing colours of the sky. This not only boosts productivity but also nurtures creativity, providing employees with a dynamic, inspiring backdrop for their endeavors.
• Museums, custodians of human history and culture, have also embraced the transformative power of light. Dynamic lighting breathes life into ancient artifacts and timeless masterpieces. It sets the stage for an immersive journey through time, as visitors are transported to the eras and landscapes captured in the art. Every brushstroke, every nuance, is accentuated by the play of light, creating a sensory feast for the eyes and soul.

In this age of technological marvels, we stand at the intersection of art and science. LightArt, born in the '60s, continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of human perception. It reminds us that light is not just a utility; it is a source of inspiration, a tool for transformation, and a gateway to the deepest pockets of our consciousness.

As we bask in the radiant glow of LightArt, let us remember the visionaries like Richard Kelly, who dared to compare light to art and paved the way for a world where our surroundings are not just spaces but canvases waiting to be painted with brushstrokes of light. In the dance of brilliance and luminescence, we discover the magic of perception, and in the embrace of dynamic light, we find our connection to the ever-evolving tapestry of nature.

Let’s continue to explore, innovate, and illuminate our world, for the art of light, there are no limits to what we can imagine and create.?