Collected Light Vol 3: Women in Entertainment Lighting

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Exhibitions: London/Milan/Hong Kong // The Books: Vol. 1 / Vol. 3

 

Hardcover, 256 pages, 2024
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1739141636 / ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1739141639

Purchase Hardcover Book*: Italy / France / Germany / Netherlands / Poland / Spain / Sweden / UK / USA

Purchase eBook

Following on from the successful publication in 2022 of ‘Collected Light Volume One: Women Light Artists’, Light Collective have published a third book in the series, ‘Collected Light Volume Three: Women in Entertainment Lighting’ in November 2024.

Light Collective, a UK-based lighting consultancy have spent the last 25 years working with light in many formats. As well as architectural lighting design, the company is known for its role as light activists within the lighting industry. This has ranged from Guerrilla Lighting demonstrations around the world, showing the transformative nature of light within cities to the global community, to the networking project Women In Lighting, set up to raise the profile of women working with light and to celebrate their achievements.

The Women In Lighting initiative led Light Collective to the curation of this third book, Women In Entertainment Lighting. Women working in this field are in a minority and often uncelebrated. This book is a small step towards trying to redress this unfair imbalance. While researching the book, Light Collective reached out across the globe to many women working in this field. The result is by no means exhaustive and there are many women who deserve to be included and who Light Collective hope to connect with in the future.

Book Launch: 20 November 2024
 

The new book was launched at an exclusive party hosted by Ayrton at their showroom in Paris on the 20 November 2024 as part of the Women In Lighting Entertainment Sessions, with all 65 contributors featured in the publication invited from all over the world to attend. Speakers at the launch included Clementine Fletcher-Smith from the UK speaking abut Light and Architecture, Clara Daguin on her work with light and fashion and Christina Thanasoula on lighting design for theatre. Light Collective spoke about the book at PLASA, London and LDI, Las Vegas.

Ayrton specialises in developing industry-leading intelligent LED and laser lighting solutions for the entertainment and architecture industries, their decision to join the Women In Lighting initiative as a new sponsor, enabled Light Collective to extend their focus from celebrating the professional achievements of women working in architectural lighting, to include those working in entertainment and live events. The aim of this book is to raise the profile of the designers featured in the hope that it offers support, encouragement and inspiration to the next generation of women hoping to work in this sector.

Contributors featured in the book include: Alita Escobedo, Amy D Lux, Anna Turra, Anne Militello, Averil Bott, Bethany Gupwell, Beverly Emmons, Cara Hood, Cat Tate Starmer, Celine Royer, Christina Thanasoula, Danielle Feinberg, Daphne Ting-Yu Chu, Diana Kesselschmidt, Domino Mannheim, Elanor Higgins, Elena Armellini, Elisabetta Campanelli, Eliza Alexandropoulou, Ellen Ruge, Emily Bornt, Emma Weil, Erica D Hayes, Erica Lauren Maholmes, Eve Radwan, Fiametta Baldiserri, Heather Carson, Hema Maskowitz, Hetall Dedhhia, I – Hua Kao, Iga Pop, Jennifer Tipton, Jessica Greenberg, Jessica Hung Han Yun, Karla Lopez, Kat Borderud, Kathy A Perkins, Lauren King, Liliana Ladeluca, Lola Barroso, Lucy Carter, Luisa Fanciullacci Sodergren, Maria T Mendoza, Mary J Varher, Megumi Yatabe, Mildred M Moyo, Natalie Heckl, Natalie Wreyford, Paule Constable, Peggy Eisenhauer, Po- Hsin Liu, Randiane Aalberg Sandboe, Rie Uomori, Roma Flowers, Sian James-Holland, Sooner Routhier, Stacey Boggs, Subul Lodi, Susan M Nicholson, Tess Minor, Tiffany Spicer Keys, Yana Rits, Yang Yu, Zoe Dirse.

This is the book I wish existed when I graduated from my lighting design degree in 2003.  The book would have been a welcome and empowering read, as I moved into my working life in backstage lighting surrounded then, largely by a landscape of men. 
– Mig Walsh

Read Full Book Review

Press

Book Review // Mig Walsh // Feb 2025

Alita Escobedo, la mexicana que ilumina los escenarios // MILENIO // 4 Feb 2025

Women in Entertainment Lighting: Collected Light Vol 3 // MONDO-DR 35-2 // Jan/Feb 2025

Learn from Women in the Entertainment Lighting Industry // Vectorworks // 4 Dec 2024

Audiovisual Activism – Lighting Practices Benefitting the Industry and the People Within It // MONDO-DR 35-1 // Nov/Dec 2024

Women In Entertainment Lighting

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Collected Light Vol 3

Following on from the successful publication in 2022 of ‘Collected Light Volume One: Women Light Artists’, Light Collective have published a third book in the series, ‘Collected Light Volume Three: Women in Entertainment Lighting’ in November 2024.

The Book

Past WIL Entertainment Sessions Talks & Interviews

WIL Global Gathering 2022

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Programme: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 / The Video Recordings

The WIL Global Gathering event is an online event to celebrate International Women’s Day, the 3rd anniversary of the Women In Lighting (WIL) Project and to connect our growing network and community together. The WIL Global Gathering is open to everyone in the lighting community regardless of gender. We invite you all to join us online on 8th March 2022. It features an inspiring selection of sessions themed as follows: Global Light, Global Action, Global Journey and Global Work.

The event is divided into three parts to ensure that we are able to include presentations from around the world and enable participation from different time zones. This will ensure our event is truly global. Please join us for part of the day or all day if you can. There will also be a WIL Social Roulette at the end of each part.

Happy International Women’s Day to you all and a big thank you to all our sponsors and supporters who have made the event possible.

The WIL team

Programme

Global Light : Light around the world. We’ve asked 6 lighting designers who all live in different lighting conditions to share their local light with us in a short presentation.

Global Action : Looking at the different initiatives that the lighting community are doing to make the world of light a better, more balanced and more informed place.

Global Journey : Highlighting and delving into the unique lighting journey of an influential and respected member of the lighting community.

Global Work : We are all connected by design, by projects and by the tools and techniques we use. This sections takes a short sharp look at projects around the world.

: 45 minutes of free flowing conversation where you can virtually meet and share your background, inspirations and daily lives with new and old friends in just 3 minutes per conversation. You will be randomly matched to a selection of the other attendees and have 3 minutes to connect, chat and exchange. We really hope that you enter into the spirit of the session, connect with as many people as possible and most of all have fun!

Watch the Presentations

PART 1: Asia Pacific Zone
6:00AM—9:30AM GMT // Convert time

06:00

Introduction Video

06:05
Anujna Dyaneshwar
light

Chattisgarh, India

Anujna Dyaneshwar / Maatimol
My name is Anujna Nutan Dnyaneshwar. I am an architect practicing earthen building in India. My husband and I started this initiative we named Maatimol, which in our language, means worth dust.

We started working together in 2014, on a community radio project in the remote Himalayan hills of Garhwal. It was my first earthen building project, as an assistant to late architect Didi Contractor, who has left behind seminal architectural work of Neo-Vernacular style, a living tradition of artisans and a handful interns, some struggling to document her work and others, trying to explore Neo Vernacular architecture in a diversity of contexts we live in!

At Maatimol, we aspire to create carefully designed earthen buildings that are relevant with the modern lifestyle and responsible in their consumption. We use local, natural materials with techniques that are ancient, but designs that are contemporary. Most of our clients are, although families with urban background are by choice moving into smaller, often off grid homes in villages or wilderness. In other words, people willingly stepping down the ladder of increasing consumption.

My mentor, Didi Contractor, brought light to the darkest of the corners and revealed the beauty of the most humble abodes. And in that lies our inspiration and the reason to build.
06:10
Pilasinee Rattarangsi
light

What’s On – 5 Thai Lights

Pilasinee Rattarangsi / RANGSI ATELIER Co., Ltd.
Pila is a Lighting Architect based in Bangkok. Illuminated and flickering childhood toys first sparked her interest in light, and this interest continued in her years studying Architecture. Her designs present a conversation between light and shadow.

Pila graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture and a Rector Certificate of Honours, then she continued her studies with a Master of Architectural Lighting Design at Hochschule Wismar – University of Applied Sciences, Germany. In 2005, she completed her theatrical and architectural lighting design apprenticeship with Jesper Kongshaug, Scenograferne, Det Kongelige Teater (The Royal Danish Theatre), Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects in Copenhagen, Denmark.

After this she joined White Arkitekter AB in Gothenburg, Sweden before returning to Thailand and continuing to work with light throughout Asia. Currently she is a founder of RANGSI ATELIER; an independent Lighting Architect, Business Development Consultant, Guest Lecturer, Speaker and more…

Pila’s lighting experience in Europe, Asia and Nordic countries has sharpened her ability to merge local culture and modern lighting design in the best possible way.

She is a Registered Architect in Thailand. To share her knowledge, she has been invited to guest lecture at the Assumption University and since 2016 at King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, Thailand.
06:15
Hoa Yang
action

The effect of urban lighting on perceptions of safety for women and girls in Melbourne, Australia

Hoa Yang / Arup
Hoa Yang is a Senior Lighting Designer at Arup, and PhD candidate at the Department of Art, Design and Architecture, Monash University. Hoa specialises in daylight and experiential lighting design in her role at Arup and has extensive experience in local and international arts and culture, public infrastructure, and urban realm projects. Hoa’s practice brings together 24-hour lighting design with human-centric strategies to transform experiences for minority groups within the built environment. Her current research focuses on the role of technical lighting parameters for positive night-time experiences for intersectional people in public spaces.
06:30
Jett Blyth and Light Collective
journey

Interview

Jett Blyth and Light Collective / Blyth Electrical
Jett Blyth was born in Melbourne, Australia and is an electrician, co-owning an electrical business (Blyth Electrical) with her husband, specialising in luxury high-end homes and town houses. Besides being a mum to a one-year-old boy and a 2-year-old girl she is also on call to work nights doing electrical safety maintenance for a separate company. Before becoming an electrician Jett worked as a flight attendant and became a qualified chef simultaneously. Jett became interested in working in the trades at a young age as her father worked in home maintenance and she helped out often but was discouraged to pursue a career as she was told “women do not get hired in trades, therefore there was no future for her”.

Starting out and pursuing a career in electrical, Jett started working in commercial and then moving into industrial and domestic electrical.

In her spare time Jett is mostly with her family and is the singer of a classic rock cover band and a singer of a Motley Crue tribute band (Looks That Kill) and enjoys writing, singing and producing music.
07:00

Break

07:15
Aviva Gunzburg
work

“of Space, People & Light”

Aviva Gunzburg / NDYLight
With a background in industrial design, Aviva has developed her technical and spatial skills in the building services environment. Working as a multi-discipline design drafter for several years, Aviva developed a solid understanding about how buildings work and services are coordinated.

Aviva is passionate about lighting design and believes that a well-designed lighting scheme will enhance a space, providing energy efficiency, and improving end user experience. She leans towards a luminance-based approach to design, tempered with a lighting ergonomics philosophy and seeks to create spaces which promote a sense of comfort and safety.

Using her technical knowledge and collaborating with the designer, Aviva creates environments where light is key but light fittings are not. She has had the privilege to work as an independent lighting designer within large building services companies her entire career. This as given her experience in a diverse variety of design projects including commercial, healthcare, hospitality, retail and domestic lighting as well as landscape, area, sports, road and railway lighting.
07:30
Otto Ng
work

Transforming Architecture

Otto Ng / LAAB architects
Otto Ng is Cofounder and Design Director of LAAB — a laboratory for Art & Architecture dedicated to spatial innovations. Under his leadership, the team has designed for K11 MUSEA, Leica stores, f22 foto space, M+ Museum Restaurants, and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

Based in Hong Kong, LAAB has received recognitions from global design communities, including the Architizer A+ Award, Archdaily TOP 100, and Japan Good Design Award BEST 100. In 2020, LAAB was awarded the Design Studio of the Year by the INDE Awards and featured as the Next Progressives by the Architect Magazine.

Otto graduated from MIT, and worked in the US, UK and Italy, prior to cofounding LAAB. An innovator at heart — Otto was honored among TATLER Asia’s Most Influential in 2021, remarking on how he pioneers the architecture of the future.
07:45
Alberto Sanchez, Jerry Yu, Pascal Krepel
work

Spanish passion, German Precision and Chinese Efficiency: an exceptional vision

Alberto Sanchez, Jerry Yu, Pascal Krepel / Sky NOA
SKY NOA is an ambitious young practice, pioneer-thinking for something new.

The Studio was established in 2018 in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Founding it on the basis of ‘not only architecture’ but with the idea of promoting space for creative minds of all areas. Providing a platform for people to share, develop and grow personally and as a community. It is the aim to work alongside like-minded people and clients embarking a strong connection and new projects.

The three founders are a collaboration of three different cultural backgrounds bringing together a vision of cross boarder encounters:

‘Spanish Passion,
German Precision and
Chinese Efficiency.’

The practice disciplines itself include not only architecture, retail space, work space, private residential and furniture design, but go beyond other disciplines with international experience in design, construction and procurement, from small to big scale.

The practice founders are consisting of Alberto Sanchez, Pascal Krepel and Jerry Yu. Together we share rich backgrounds with more than 10 years experiences in China and across Asia. 

We have worked in the fields of architecture, interior design, procurement and sourcing, especially in context of retail but get involved in a weirdly wonderful mix of other creative challenges.

With creating this practice our aim is to work alongside like-minded people and clients;

‘Creating exceptional visions – together!’

We love combining ideas and thoughts, getting them out onto paper, seeing them come to life and eventually becoming real spaces. Spaces we can walk through and experience, making habitants or respectively visitors smile and feel good. 
08:00
Chanyaporn Bstieler
work

Cultural aspects of lighting design

Chanyaporn Bstieler / Inverse Lighting
Chanyaporn is a lighting designer, educator, and researcher with a keen interest in the relationship between light, people, and culture. She received a Ph.D. in Architecture (Light & Lighting) from University College London. She is currently an assistant professor, a Chair Program of the MSc. in Design and Planning (Major in Lighting Design), and the Director of Lighting Research and Innovation Centre at the King Mongkut’s University of Technology, Thailand. She also contributes to the professional master’s degree in Lighting Design and Management, Wismar University of Applied Science, Germany.

In addition to teaching, Chanyaporn has directed significant interior and urban lighting research projects, collaborating with local and international institutions and industry partners. Her research focuses on the human factors and cultural differences in lighting design and innovation. She has also served as a committee of the Thai lighting association, which developed national lighting design guidelines.

Professionally, she is the Managing Director of Inverse Lighting Design (Bangkok), an award-winning lighting practice with offices in Bangkok, Hong Kong, and London. She also plays a vital role in promoting lighting best practices for design professionals in Thailand and ASEAN region through seminars and workshops.
08:20
Noriko Higashi
work

The Lighting Detectives

Noriko Higashi / Lighting Planners Associates
Born in Kumamoto Prefecture, Noriko Higashi received a Bachelor Degree of East Asian Studies from University of California, Los Angeles. She joined LPA in 2010 as a secretary of Principal Kaoru Mende.
While supporting his business, she is also in charge of LPA’s publicity so that the completed projects and activities of LPA are to be press-agented widely. She focuses on Lighting Detectives administration and planning, as well as Lighting Detectives’ events that take place at home and abroad. She is an affiliate member of International Association of Lighting Designers.
08:30

Global Roulette

Watch the Presentations

PART 2: Europe / Middle East / Africa Zone
11:00AM—2:30PM GMT // Convert time

11:00

Introduction Video

11:05
Malcolm Innes
light

Shetland: a tale of light at 60° North

Malcolm Innes / Centre for Island Creativity
Malcolm Innes has been working professionally with light since 1991 when he began working with Kevan Shaw Lighting Design. He also spent seven years working with Speirs and Major as associate and then associate director before setting up his own light art and lighting design practice in 2004. Malcolm now combines his love of light with a career in academia. Having established the UK’s first design led masters in lighting design at Edinburgh Napier University, he is now based in Shetland and is Director of the Centre for Island Creativity at the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Even with very varied academic responsibilities, lighting is still at the heart of what he does and light art remains a key part of Malcolm’s output, both in private practice and through university based research and public engagement projects. Recent work includes community co-design work to transform pedestrian routes in Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site through light, projection and sculptural interventions. Malcolm also continues his research and practice in the intricacies of conservation lighting and is an invited member of the IES Museum and Gallery Lighting Committee.
11:10
Manal Kahale
light

standOFF

Manal Kahale / Lights for Lebanon
Raised in Lebanon during the post-civil war reconstruction era, Manal witnessed both the consistent failures that the country’s sectarian leaders demonstrated, as well as the resilience of the Lebanese people who longed for a better living condition. This motivated her to pursue a degree in landscape architecture at the American University of Beirut before coupling it with a master’s degree in Lighting Design from Parsons. These credentials allowed her to secure a position in the reputed team of HLB.

With the conditions in Lebanon largely kept the same, she decided to move back and work as a freelance lighting designer while putting her knowledge to use in solving an issue that haunted the country like a spectre: The absence of light at night.

The situation deteriorated even more when less than a year later, the biggest nonnuclear explosion occurred in Beirut’s port. However, the people, stood up and banded together and this time Manal decided to be one of them. She founded Light for Lebanon, under the US based Light Reach Program, a civil movement that aims to secure solar powered light to the families and streets ravaged by the explosion, all while trying to bring the beautiful sense of community the country is so famous for.

Resilience happens when the people can see the light at the end of the tunnel, so what will they be capable of if we bring the light closer to them?
11:15
Neil Knowles
action

How to be an Ally

Neil Knowles / Elektra Lighting
After university (Theoretical Physics and Philosophy) Neil moved to London and started his career as a services engineer. Quickly realising that the only element offering scope for real design input was lighting, he focussed on this. After a short stint at other lighting consultancies, Neil took the opportunity to set up Elektra in 2000. It has grown organically and now has 12 staff, and an enviable portfolio and client list.

Neil lives in Walthamstow with his partner and 2 delightful children, where he spends his weekends doing a lot of sports including running, swimming, karate, kickboxing, table tennis and more.
11:30
Nishi Shah
journey

Interview

Nishi Shah / Lighting Design International
Before joining Lighting Design International in 1996, Nishi studied Architectural Engineering at Leeds University. After a few years of working as a Structural Engineer and gaining valuable insight into London’s building industry, she turned her attention to architectural lighting design after being accepted to the Bartlett School of Graduate Studies at UCL, where she was awarded a MSc in Architecture: Light and Lighting.
 
For over 25 years, she has worked her way up through the ranks, seeing the company more than quadruple in size and change from a small studio in a little-known profession, to one of the foremost lighting design consultancies in the world.
 
Nishi has designed numerous award-winning schemes in the UK and abroad. As a team leader and now a Design Director, she has nurtured the talents of many designers over the years and has enjoyed working on a variety of prestigious projects ranging from Resort Hotels and Office Developments to Spas and Private Residences. Her experience working on some of LDI’s largest projects has been crucial in achieving excellence, helping to secure their leading status in the industry. Her extensive portfolio includes One Hyde Park, Heckfield Place, Ham Yard Hotel to name a few.
12:00

Break

12:15
Melissa Mak
work

Experience Design in Lighting

Melissa Mak / Arup
Melissa Mak is a senior lighting designer within Arup’s London Lighting Studio. She has a Master’s degree in architectural lighting at University College London.

To her, light is an indispensable design element and it has a magic to transcending and transforming the space to a different dimension and perception. She has been promoting Sustainable Development from wellbeing perspective, focusing on lighting connection with human emotions.

Melissa has completed many international lighting design projects across a wide range of business sectors; commercial buildings, education buildings, museums, landscape, public realm and lighting master planning. Projects including The Shard in London, London Bridge Quarter, Sainsbury Laboratory in Cambridge, Stonecutters Bridge in Hong Kong, Shenzhen Stock Exchange, Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies, Doha. Apart from this, Melissa also plays an active role in fostering creative design culture within lighting team in Arup.

She is passionate about nature and fascinated by the design of creation. She often draws inspiration from it to fuel her design creativity. She has taken diploma course at Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in London focused on Plant Growth and Development. This has provided her a better understanding about the relationship between plant and light. Melissa strongly believes that designer has an important role to play to shape a better environment- with the aim to achieving a harmony and symbiosis of man and nature.
12:30
Stéphanie Daniel
work

Rodin muséum or invisible artificial light

Stéphanie Daniel / Agence Stéphanie Daniel
After graduating from the École du Théâtre National de Strasbourg in 1989, Stéphanie Daniel has been a committed lighting designer.

She has specialised in museographic lighting since 2000: Musée Rodin, Musée Grévin, Musée des Beaux-arts de Orléans, de Pont-Aven, Kourou’s space center, whilst also being involved in lighting for live performance; theatre, opera and dance, working with recognised stage directors; Stanislas Nordey, Denis Podalydés, Zabou Breitman, and Martine Wijckaert.

With more than 280 productions and over 25 years of experience, she is used to working in a variety of environments and enjoys creating in different universes using light as a tool and a source for emotion. She was honoured in 2007 with the French award “le Molière” as the best lighting designer for “Cyrano de Bergerac” directed by Denis Podalydès at the theater La Comédie-Française.

The quote “Why something instead of nothing” from Leibniz is her leitmotif.
12:45
Paula Rainha
work

Light where the sun sets last

Paula Rainha / Filamento
Paula is a trained Architect who, after finishing her M.Sc. in Light & Lighting in 2005, has embraced the architectural lighting design profession full on.
She lived in London for 5 years, where she had the chance to work with great lighting teams and be a part of a strong lighting community in the UK.
Since she moved back to Portugal, more than 10 years ago, and lacking this professional and inspiring community, Paula has been raising awareness of the profession and the impact of lighting on the built environment amongst students, architects, engineers and clients. In 2014, she founded Synapse, an independent lighting consultancy. In 2020, Synapse merged into the new practice Filamento, joining forces with Joana Mendo. Filamento is currently working with several high-profile architects and clients on various projects from the urban to the residential scale.
Paula is also the Women In Lighting project ambassador for Portugal.
13:00
Regina Santos
work

A Light Journey in Bright Sunny Middle East – Light Insights and Case Studies

Regina Santos / Light Fusion
Regina Santos is the Founder & Design Director of Light Fusion, with a vast experience in lighting projects in the Middle East, her background comes from being a product designer (BA), architect and urban planner (BSc) and specialized in lighting from a master’s in science in architectural lighting design from KTH (MSc), she is a Member of the Society of Light and Lighting (MSLL) and Member of the Illuminating Engineering Society (MIES). Regina has worked for nearly 12 years in Dubai, having several distinguished lighting design projects developed in the region along the years, from hospitality to educational, commercial, high-end residential, clinics and healthcare projects, amongst which the New York University in Abu Dhabi, the DEWA Solar Innovation Center, the Warner Bros Hotel, to mention a few, she is also a speaker at multiple conferences and panel discussions, and author of lighting articles.
13:20
Raquel Rosildete and Katia Kolovea (WIL)
work

Colors in between: The poetics of dark skin

Raquel Rosildete and Katia Kolovea (WIL) / colours inbetween
Raquel Rosildete is a lighting designer that develops projects for theatre and architecture, pursuing visual narratives both when designing light for space and for stage.

In theatre, she develops concepts through time and spaces using light as an instrument, transforming them into other spaces or even into characters inside one narrative. In architecture she transforms the fantastic into reality and composes lighting for a subject that inhabits the space in the most unexpected ways.

She has studied in Brasília (Universidade de Brasília), Barcelona (Instituto Europeo di Diseño) and Copenhagen (Aalborg University). Now she is a Berlin based artist and has worked with architecture lighting in offices like Lichtvision, Buro Happold and currently with iart in Switzerland.

In theatre she has toured in dozens of Brazilian cities with different plays and exhibition projects. In Berlin she works mostly with decolonial and anti racist thematics, in spaces like Ballhaus Naunynstraße, Ufer Studios, HAU, Gropious Bau, Delphi, Sophiensaele among others.

Her labour grounds the research of the places in between theatre and architecture, art and technical knowledge, nature and culture, tangible and non tangible. She is a visual storyteller and brings light to people, their bodies, stories and spaces from thoughts to life.
13:30

Global Roulette

Watch the Presentations

16:00

Introduction Video

16:05
Claudia Kappl-Joy
light

Under the Same Sky – Observations of light and dark in the Sonoran Desert

Claudia Kappl-Joy / CLL  Concept Lighting Lab
Claudia is co-founder, creative and managing director of CLL . Concept Lighting Lab, a 6 people architectural lighting design studio focusing on conceptual architectural and landscape lighting solutions that are integral to the project’s language.

The collaborative practice is grounded in attentive observation, continuous listening, accurate analysis and experience in responding to constraints and opportunities. Finding the right balance, both in the design response itself as well as the adequacy of means are founding principles. The award winning project portfolio includes includes economical and boutique lighting solutions for public, cultural, commercial, hospitality, retail and high-end residential projects in the U.S. and abroad.

Claudia is a Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) and a member of Women in Lighting (WIL), the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and the Illuminating Engineering Society (MIES). An adjunct lecturer at the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (CAPLA) at the University of Arizona (UofA), she is part of the immersive [Meta]physics of Light course for the undergraduate program. Additionally, she participates in workshops, co-chairs juries and regularly attends reviews at various design schools within the United States and abroad.
Claudia Kappl-Joy holds a Master in Architecture MSc (TU Graz, Austria) and a Master in Architectural Lighting Design MSc (KTH Stockholm, Sweden) and has lived and worked in both fields in Austria, the U.K. and Sweden. Since 2007 she calls Tucson home and work base.

Her fascination with the ephemeral quality of light and its interplay with space results in the continuous search for “atmosphere” in design, through collaboration and interaction with light.
16:10
Diana Joels
light

My light world

Diana Joels / Concepdual
Diana Joels graduated in Architecture and Urban Planning and focused her career in lighting design, having more than 20 years fof experience.
Became an educator at the Lighting Laboratory at KTH, in Sweden, where besides teaching, she was Master theses coordinator.
In this same institution, acquired her own master degree in 2006, after 5 years working with lighting in interior spaces in Rio de Janeiro, her home town.
After completing her master studies, she worked at the award winning artec studio, in Barcelona, initially as lighting designer and then as lighting department coordinator, participating in large scale international projects.
Back in Brazil, started her own practice concepDUAL, working both with lighting design projects, design methodology consultancies and educational activities.
Works in collaboration with lighting designers colleagues and practices in Brazil and abroad, both for the development of specific projects as well as design process facilitator.
In 2020 started Light Drops, in partnership with Paula Carnelós: a project focused on experiential learning experiences about light. In 2021, Light Drops was co-creator of the LED Forum program.
Board of AsBAI, the Brazilian association of lighting architects between 2013 and 2019, being responsible for the educational area between 2016 and 2019.
In 2019, was awarded in the 40under40 - Lighting Design Awards.
Responsible for the lighting design area of the Instituto Europeo di Design in Rio.
Guest lecturer and thesis tutor at KTH.
Professional member of AsBAI. Educator Member of APDI, Spain. Enthusiastic collaborator of Women in Lighting Brasil.
Splits her daily life between the urban jungle in Rio and the direct contact with the earth at the farm. Considers herself an activist of natural and essential light.
16:15
Leela Shankar
action

Owning It. Circular Economy and Embodied Carbon Impact by Design.

Leela Shankar / Borealis Lighting Studio
Leela Shanker is a New York-based lighting designer with Borealis Lighting Studio. Through the GreenLight Alliance (GLA) – an international network of lighting professionals progressing industry-led standards, research and advocacy for circular lighting design principles – she initiated a pilot study with North American and European manufacturers and designers investigating global harmonisation of the lighting industry’s approach to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Her work with the AIA’s Committee on the Environment (COTE) and Carbon Leadership Forum New York chapter addresses lighting-specific issues related to Embodied Carbon and LCA. 

In 2021, the Flint Collective NYC, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation she founded to enhance the experience of public space through light, was recognised with a Lumen Award Special Citation for Lighting as a Tool for Social Impact by the Illuminating Engineering Society NYC.

Leela holds a Master of Architecture (Hons) and Master of Fine Arts – Lighting Design from Parsons School of Design and a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney. She has been published on industry platforms including Dezeen, Designing Lighting and illumni, presented at industry events including LEDucation, Walk Bike Places and IES Meet the Moment Series, guest lectured at Parsons School of Design and Syracuse University, and is an active member of the DLFNY, IALD, IES, and AIA.
16:30
Paul Gregory and Light Collective
journey

Interview

Paul Gregory and Light Collective / Focus Lighting
Paul Gregory is the founder and president of Focus Lighting, Inc. of New York City. He has spent the last 35 years revealing and highlighting architecture by “painting pictures with light.” Gregory has been awarded multiple Lumen Awards, IALD Waterbury, ASID Awards, Lighting Dimensions International’s “Lighting Designer of the Year” Award, and induction into Architectural Lighting Magazine’s Hall of Fame. His projects have been featured in the Architectural Record, Metropolis, Interior Design, Architecture & Light, Hospitality Design, LD+A, and the New York Times.
 
Paul’s designs reflect the belief that a sense of drama and theatre is inherent in successful architectural projects. The primary goal is to ensure that when a patron enters a showroom, hotel, or restaurant, or when a passerby first looks at a lit façade at night, the initial impact is as stunning and memorable as the moment the curtain rises on a Broadway stage.
17:00

Break

17:15
Emily Bornt
work

Utilising Technology in the Process of Preproduction

Emily Bornt / Lighting Entertainment and Production Services
Emily Bornt is a lighting designer, originally based in New York. Her early career includes an internship at the NY State Theatre Institute, a year studying fashion design at FIT, earning her BFA in theatrical design from Adelphi, and gaining membership in IATSE all by the age of 23. At 27 she started her career in concert touring as a lighting technician, learning from the designers she was supporting. Over the next few years Emily found herself working with larger clients and productions, taking on more responsibilities and building her knowledge base.

Emily took advantage of every opportunity to learn programming and drafting, and began operating and designing for smaller projects. In her early 30’s Emily moved to Los Angeles and started her own design company. Since then she has had the opportunity to travel the world programming and operating lights for concerts, live television, game shows, corporate events, AR/XR Broadcasts, installs, and immersive experiences. Her experience crosses over into video and scenic, utilizing different types of software and technology for preproduction and implementation.

While Emily provides mentorship to younger aspiring designers and students, she also runs a Facebook group for those who have the “non-male” experience in the entertainment industry. This group offers support, work opportunities, and sense of community for those who may not have access to inclusive work environments.
17:30
Patricia Bernal
work

A Perspective from Another Lighting Industry

Patricia Bernal / Because of Light
Patricia Bernal is an Architect from Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Mexico with a Masters degree in Architectural Lighting Design from Universidad Politecnica de Madrid. She began her experience as a lighting designer in Madrid working for Viabizzuno and then on her return to Mexico, she was fortunate to work for 3 years with Víctor Palacio at Ideas en Luz. She also completed courses in the Lighting Specialty in Universidad Iberoamericana and one module of the Lighting Specialty in UNAM. She has worked in the Theatrical and TV Lighting Industry and was the Project manager for the company Grupo Lighting where she designed lighting systems for many venues around the country and introducing LED technology for some of them for the first time. She has experience in DMX controls, rigging and all the systems involved in this kind of venues. She currently has her own lighting design studio called “Because of Light” based in Mexico City.
17:45
Priscila Pacheco
work

Belezas Apagadas

Priscila Pacheco / Kûara Design
Priscila Pacheco is a Brazilian urbanist architect who graduated in Lighting Design in Chile and has been working with lighting for over 8 years. During this time, she worked in offices in Chile, Brazil and Portugal, having had experiences with architectural, public and artistic lighting. She is currently taking a master’s degree in art and Design for the Public Space in Portugal, focusing her investigation on how the light can act as an art tool in the activation of affective memory in the Public Space, and maintains her work in Brazil through her company, Kûara Design.
18:00
Antonia Peón-Veiga
work

LIGHT AND WATER

Antonia Peón-Veiga / Antonia Peón-Veiga
Master in Architectural Lighting Design from Parsons, The New School for Design New York (2010), with financing from the Chilean Scholarship. In 2006 she graduated as an architect from the PUC Santiago, after which she worked at Smiljan Radic’s office in Santiago, 2007–2008, collaborating for the Viña Vik Millahue project.

She received the award for best Master’s thesis with Drawing Light, processing the lit environment, where she explores the graphic representation of light and lighting design. She obtains the Richard Kelly Grant 2010 to continue with the research of hers Master’s thesis and publish it. Finalist in 2010 of the Targetti Light Art Award with the piece Facing the Technique, where she explores the physical detail of different lighting technologies through the use of magnifying glasses. Finalist in 2019 of the LAMP Awards international prize with the lighting project of the Biobío Regional Theater and DARC Awards shortlisted with the Sonic Affects project.

In 2010 and 2011, she worked at Tillotson Design Associates office in New York, participating in projects with offices such as SANAA, Diller Scofidio and Renfro, OMA, KPF and SHoP.

She has lived in Santiago since 2012, the year in which she developed the lighting for the Biobío Regional Theater, a MOP contest awarded to the office of Smiljan Radic. At the same time, she works as an independent architect and has designed the lighting for dance productions such as Nosotres (2012), Rito de Primavera (2013), Popsong (2014), Acapela (2015), Gong (2016), Oropel (2016), Null (2016), Violeta (2017), Sonic Affects (2018), Landscape Dance (2019-2021), Hammam (2019-2021) as well as Locutorio (2017) in theater.

Co-founder in 2013 of EstudioPAR, architectural lighting office. In 2019, she founded an office under her name.
18:20
Jane Slade
work

Starving for darkness

Jane Slade / Speclines/Anatomy of Night
Jane Slade, MID, LC, IES is the Specification Sales Manager for Speclines in Massachusetts, a lighting manufacturer’s representative agency specializing in public outdoor lighting through an interdisciplinary approach of blending design, science and the latest technology. She is a lighting educator and researcher at Anatomy of Night, researching the many ways in which light impacts our environment, human health, wildlife, biodiversity, and interdependence. Jane is the host of the podcast Starving for Darkness where these impacts are also discussed. Jane Slade is a Richard Kelly Grant recipient for explorations into the social and emotional impacts of light and lighting, through her work in creating lighting fixtures from waste materials in India, and through art installations focused on manipulating emotional experiences with light and color. She is a member of the IES Committee for Outdoor Environmental Lighting, the IES Progress Committee, a contributor to LD+A on the topic of Wildlife, and is currently writing a book about the natural daylight cycle. In her spare time, she is a yoga teacher.
18:30

Global Roulette

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Global Gathering 2021

Home Page Introduction

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

“When we talk about women in design, we should not turn it into a minority issue. We need to honour our heroines because unless they are visible, we will not encourage the next generation of female designers.”

Ilse Crawford

WOMEN IN LIGHTING is an inspirational and global digital platform that profiles women working in the field of lighting and lighting design. It aims to promote their passion and achievements, narrate their career path and goals. It aims to celebrate their work and increase the profile of women working in lighting to help encourage, support and inspire the next generation.

WIL has used social activism to highlight and challenge unconscious bias in the industry via a strong social media presence that has built a large following. The project is also supported by individual women in 75+ different countries. Ambassadors for WIL are a driving force for the project and create stand alone local initiatives and partner globally for broader initiatives. They are also a point of contact in each location for anyone seeking to find out more about the project.

Together, the project has evolved to form an international connected community that shares information, support and knowledge.  Alongside the website resource, WIL hosts an international conference annually on the 8th March and has an ongoing awards program to celebrate women in the industry.
Newsletter   The Team


LIT 2020 Spotlight Recipient

 
Women In Lighting

WIL Entertainment – Past Sessions

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

LDI, Las Vegas

8 Dec 2024, Las Vegas Convention Center

The LDI Entertainment Sessions supported by Ayrton and ACT in Vegas were well attended. The sessions featured Karla Lopez, Erica D Hayes, Kat Borderud speaking about their work and Sharon Huizinger speaking about the Rock Livitz Academy.

WIL Entertainment Lighting Session 2024

20 November 2024, Aryton’s HQ in Paris

WIL Entertainment Lighting Session 2023

19 & 20 October 2023, Aryton's HQ in Paris or online
free with registration

Women in Entertainment Lighting Sessions, run by Sharon & Martin from Light Collective, Linnea from Topstage Sweden & Ayrton, offer a full-day event that offers inspiration, motivation, networking, personal and professional development and the opportunity to be part of and also support the community of women in lighting.

 

Heather Carson was born and raised in Los Angeles and spent 25 years in New York designing lighting in the US and internationally for over 200 productions in theatre, opera, dance, concert and video.

 

Light and the city are central to the preoccupations of Isabelle Corten. The professional experience of this lighting designer has been gained through successful projects mainly in Belgium, Switzerland and France.

Watch Session Recording

 

The focus of Natalie Heckl is the design of light shows with the vision of the perfect interplay between music and the visual representation of music through light.

Watch Session Recording

 

Emma Weil is the head of light, sound and video at the Royal Swedish Opera in Stockholm, Sweden.
Watch Session Recording

 

As a multimedia director, Julie Boniche is constantly looking for new creative ways to create memorable immersive experiences for the audience, each project needing to achieve a perfect balance between visual impact and emotional storytelling.

Watch Session Recording

 

Last but not least, join us for a day of innovation, inspiration, and exploration of the latest lighting technologies on Friday, Oct 20th.

Full Event Info

Plasa Show, London

3—5 September 2023

We are pleased to share information on our two speakers at PLASA in London. PLASA is a supporter of Women In Lighting.


Photo credits above: Headshot - Jon Turtle/Madame Butterfly by Richard Hubert Smith

Monday 4th September, 11.30am
From Concept to Performance Space, Light as Storytelling
Elanor Higgins

Elanor is a prolific Lighting Designer working throughout the UK and internationally. She has lit many award-winning productions in her long, successful career. Designing for Theatre, Opera, Dance, Musicals and Children’s Theatre, in all sizes of venues including site specific spaces.

A graduate of RWCMD , she regularly returns as an educator and mentor in Lighting. Recent Designs include - WNO - ‘Blaze of Glory!’, ‘ Madam Butterfly’ Rhondda Rips it Up’ and NTW/Collective Cymru/Unboxed ‘Galwad’.

This session will explore the creative process in developing a lighting design for performance with an emphasis on how light, shade, shadow and colour help create the world the performers inhabit and how they interact with light. It will also look at how light can affect an audience’s response to the performance and story being told.

Watch Recording

 

Monday 4th September, 2.30pm
Illuminating Narratives: Crafting Connections through Light
Daphne Ting Yu Chu

Daphne is a multi-disciplinary lighting designer specialising in stage lighting design and interactive lighting installations. She has worked in over 50 cities worldwide for over 200 arena-scale live events, as well as exhibited her projects internationally. Her works combine visual/ sound art and technology to create interactive and immersive experiences. She is interested in creating shifting perceptions of space in continual flux through sensory perception, which responds to the behaviour of its occupants.

Lighting designers tell stories of space through light. From seeing space to feeling space, how we deliver the narrative and forging deep connections with viewers using light. In this seminar session, multi-disciplinary lighting designer Daphne Chu will talk about how she feels space and enhances viewers' experience of space with her experience in stage lighting and interactive lighting.

Watch Recording

Monday 4th September, 4pm
WIL Meet-up

The Women In Lighting Project is inviting all women working in lighting and their supporters to come along for drinks and a meet up at 4pm on 4th September in the PLASA bar on the show floor. This is the second year running that the meet up is happening and in 2022, we hosted a group of women from many different backgrounds who came together to swap stories. The meet up is an opportunity to network and find out more about the project. Thanks to Ambersphere and Ayrton Lighting for supporting the drinks and the WIL project.

Sign up

WIL Lounge at Prolight + Sound

24–28 April 2023

Europe's leading fair for event and media technology, Prolight + Sound 2023 is supporting the Women in Lighting project with the premiere of the “Women in Lighting Lounge” where we will be present in person to record inteviews, discuss the project and continue to draw attention to the achievements of women in the sector and provide impetus for more gender diversity.

Meet-ups // Misc

30th JAN 2024
Barcelona, Spain

First meet-up of 2024 is held in conjunction with WILM at the ISE show.

 

LDI Show // 3 December 2023
Las Vegas Convention Centre

We are pleased to announce a special session at the LDI show on Sunday, December 3rd which includes both talks and a meet up and is supported by Ayrton and ACT.

Light Collective will be introducing the WIL session and it will complete with a social get together. In between, there will be three fabulous speakers hosted by Ebony Madry, Lighting Designer & Project Manager, Brite Ideas:

Lauren King - Principal Designer, Little Lightning Strikes

Emily Bornt - Lighting Designer/Programmer/Director

Ellen Kulkinski - Director of Lighting Design, Coherent Design

 

Jan 31– Feb 03 2023 // Integrated Systems Europe
For Free-Entry, please use our invitation code DQXT1SQH on the show website.

18 November 2022, 3:30–5pm // Las Vegas

LDI in collaboration with WIL, will be hosting short 30-minute talks by dynamic women in the lighting industry on a series of different topics!

Amy D. Lux: Considerations For The Built Environment
Paula Dinkel: Find Your Light
Carrie Heisler: Women in Sports Entertainment

Use this promo code for free floor passes for the show - LDI22EHP.

 

20 October 2022 // Online or Ayrton HQ (Paris)

 

5 October 2022, 5–6pm // LLB Expo Bar, Stockholm

Moving Lights

Sept 14 2021 Online – 1PM GMT

There was a live demo from Ayrton from their Paris showroom, a talk by UK lighting designer Aideen Malone, a presentation on architectural moving light products from formalighting and a talk from French designer Damien Joyeux. The session ended with a Q&A.

Any product questions can be directed to Ksenia or Linnea at Ayrto or Pietro at formalighting.

Collected Light – Hong Kong

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Exhibitions: London/Milan/ Hong Kong // The Books: Vol. 1 / Vol. 3

H QUEEN’S
G/F, 80 Queen’s Road Central
8 March – 6 April 2024

Presented as part of the Henderson Art@Central programme, which runs through March 2024, the exhibition is supported by Women in Lighting and showcases a collective of eight multidisciplinary women artists from diverse cultures, who have each forged visionary paths in their use of light as an artistic medium.

“The exhibition is inspired by architect Zaha Hadid’s innovative legacy and imbued with the spirit of The Henderson, an iconic project for Henderson Land which celebrates both the company’s legacy, and its ambitious vision for transforming the future of Central Hong Kong’s cityscape”, said Kristine Li Keng Yan, Founder of HART and General Manager of Portfolio Leasing (1) Department, Henderson Land.


Remembering A Brave New World by Chila Kumari Singh Burman

The exhibition focuses on ‘light’ as a medium with which to illuminate redefined perceptions of everyday life, memory and identity. Each work acts as a transporter for journeys of reimagining that reflect and refract courage and craftsmanship in artistic creativity. Visitor’s will enter the exhibition from Queens Road Central at the joyful invitation of two fluorescent neon pieces from Chila Kumari Singh Burman’s 2020 commission for the Tate Britain, London; ‘A Brave New World.’ Burman is celebrated internationally for her radical feminist practice that empowers women. In this body of work she drew on multiple cultural influences, from childhood memories of ‘Blackpool Illuminated’ to current pop cultural references, to create flamboyant visual exclamations and positive spiritual imagery that give way to serious contemplation about cultural and social stereotypes.


Corner Relief 45°150° by Betty Ng COLLECTIVE

Also presenting an unconventional approach to neon sign-making inspired by childhood memories of iconic nightscapes – in this case a Hong Kong now in the past – Betty Ng / COLLECTIVE fuses traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics in her site specific piece ‘Corner Relief’. The work sits at an intersection of sculpture, architecture, and design, exploring new possibilities for how to embrace a sense of place in dialogue with its surroundings.


‘Sword of Damocles by So Wing Po

A desire to preserve heritage and cultural significance through reinvention and a dynamic interplay between elements of tradition and modernity can also be found in ‘Sword of Damocles’ (2024) by So Wing Po. Born into a Hong Kong family of Chinese medicine doctors, So grew up surrounded by medicinal ingredients, transforming them into raw materials for playthings and eventually artworks. The Sword of Damocles tree is a well-known medicinal tree which gains its name from the sword-like pods that hang down from bare branches when the tree is in fruit. When the pods split, round seeds with thin papery wings drift away with the wind like dancing butterflies. The work extends the artist’s earlier Flow series, and her multi-layered interpretation of the self-regulating systems found in nature.

Carla Chan is similarly inspired by nature, creating multimedia installations that oscillate from real to imaginary while challenging the possibilities of media art. The artist has created a new work for the exhibition that immerses the audience in digitally manipulated representations of weather formations. Visualising an abstract dystopian future, ‘xxx’ prompts viewers to contemplate the consequences of extreme weather conditions.


Off the Grid by Jacqueline Hen

Artist and spatial designer Jacqueline Hen investigates the perception of body and space in both physical and digital habitats, using light as a medium to create experiences that highlight how light shapes our understanding of the world around us. In her installation work ‘Off the Grid’, Hen uses architectural form to invite exhibition visitors to contemplate the invisible and tangible aspects of their surroundings, demanding a reconsideration of their spatial perception of space and light. Similarly Raha Raissnia's work, ‘نور’ (Nour), draws inspiration from architectural, natural, and technological forms, employing light as a medium to reveal invisible connections between time and space, and constructing multi-layered realms that traverse past and present, memory and imagination. Taking a very different approach to examining the experience of individuals within spatial environments, artist Sarah Lai presents video work ‘Spotting the Light onto a Light.’  The work depicts a banal desk lamp transformed into an ethereal human silhouette, blurring the boundaries between the object and the self, and evoking a reimagination of the familiar.


Our Colour Reflection by Liz West

At 3 x 5 meters Liz West’s playful and immersive largescale site specific installation ‘Our Colour Reflection’  instantly captivates by evoking a sense of wonder. Engaging audiences in a multisensory experience, numerous mirrored disks reflect light to create a spectrum of hues, bathing the space in vibrant colours and imaginatively bringing the urban vernacular indoors. As visitors explore the installation they encounter their own reflections, establishing a dialogue between participant and architecture, and heightening sensory awareness of the power of light and colour to transform individual experience of space.

The exhibition is curated by Vera Lam – Director of HART, presented with generous support from Women in Lighting and Light Collective, and lighting sponsorship from Forma Lighting. 

Global Gathering Survey

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

 

Skip to Report

 

Introduction

During Covid, WIL created a one-day virtual event for International Women’s Day, the Global Gathering, starting at 6:00 am in the UK that ran through to 7:00 pm UK time to encourage participation from people in all time zones. Throughout the day, the event shifted focus from Asia Pacific to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The event ran alongside a social networking feature where attendees could connect with other members of the community using a random matching software. The Global Gathering ran again in 2022.

In 2023, instead of connecting the community together in this way, the project decided to undertake a “Global Gathering” of data instead. WIL launched a survey aiming to examine the lighting profession in the context of the theme of International Women’s Day 2023 Embracing Equity. The aim was to gather a comprehensive impression of the lighting industry both in terms of where it was thriving and where it needed to improve in the area of Gender Equity.

The hope was that the results would provide a valuable contribution to the profession as a whole or at least create a line in the sand for future evaluation and thought.

WIL called upon its community and supporters to assist in creating a global gathering of information by completing a survey, aiming to investigate and therefore ultimately embrace equity in regard to working practice in all aspects of the lighting industry. The survey was open to and welcoming inputs and information from all genders.

 

What is Gender Equity?

Gender Equity refers to the principle of fairness and justice in the treatment and opportunities available to people of all genders, ensuring that no individual is disadvantaged or discriminated against based on their gender identity or expression. Thus it seeks to level the playing field and dismantle systemic biases that have historically favoured one gender over another.

Gender equity acknowledges that different genders may face unique challenges and strives to address them through policies, practices, and attitudes that promote inclusion and equal access to resources, education, employment, healthcare and other opportunities.

Achieving true equality requires recognising and valuing the diversity of experiences and contributions of individuals across the gender spectrum. Gender equity is crucial for creating a more just and inclusive society, where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential, free from the constraints of gender-based discrimination or stereotypes. By fostering a more equitable world, we not only promote individual well-being but also enrich our communities and societies as a whole.

 

Why do we need Gender Equity in the lighting industry?

Gender equity in the lighting industry is crucial for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it fosters diversity of thought and perspective. When there is a balanced representation of genders in the industry, it brings different viewpoints to the table. This diversity of thought often leads to more innovative and creative solutions.

Secondly, it helps to break down stereotypes and biases associated with certain industries. By actively promoting gender equity, we challenge the notion that certain fields are exclusive to one gender. This encourages more women to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) fields, ultimately leading to a more balanced workforce.

It is also essential that the lighting industry takes into account the needs and preferences of all users. Having a gender balanced team involved in the development process ensures that products and designs are created with a holistic understanding of diverse user requirements.

Additionally, promoting gender equity leads to a more inclusive work environment. When women are provided with equal opportunities and support, it creates a culture of respect and mutual understanding. It has been demonstrated that This contributes to increased job satisfaction, improved teamwork and ultimately, higher productivity.

 

What is the point of gathering data?

Data is the lifeblood of informed decision-making and progress in any field. It provides objective, measurable insights into various aspects of society, economy and environments. Data allows us to understand trends, identify patterns, and uncover hidden correlations that might otherwise go unnoticed.

It also serves as a benchmark against which progress can be assessed. When used effectively, data empowers individuals, organisations and governments to make evidence-based choices that lead to more efficient resource allocation, targeted interventions and improved outcomes.

Additionally, data is a powerful tool for advocacy and awareness-raising, providing tangible evidence to support arguments for reform. It wields the potential to ignite meaningful change by providing us with the knowledge and evidence needed to address pressing issues and drive progress in our communities and beyond.

 

What did the Global Gathering survey contain?

Despite originating from Women In Lighting, the survey was designed for everyone and the hope was that all genders would participate.

Everything in the expansive survey was anonymous and all questions were optional. We suggested that if participants felt that answering a particular question acted as an identifier or made them uncomfortable that they should move on to the next question. The results are shared as aggregated data only.

Many of the questions came from women and men around the world and we thank everyone that responded with suggestions of what to include. Special thanks to the WIL ambassadors and the partners of the project who contributed greatly to its content.

Some questions may have seemed irrelevant but we wanted to cross reference many different things. For example, job fulfillment, digital equity and well-being can all be cross referenced through the lens of gender equity. The survey took around twenty minutes to complete and covered a multitude of topics.

 

What did the Global Gathering survey find?

Almost 800 people completed the survey from 73 countries.

The majority of people completing the form were women (69.1%), possibly as the survey originated from the WIL project so despite our attempt at inclusive messaging, we didn’t quite nail getting an equal amount of men to contribute.

We learnt that we are not questionnaire experts (not that we were in any doubt!) and despite the majority of participants making no comment on the surveys content, a section of people felt the questions weren’t relevant to them. In particular, people who were self employed or in entertainment felt that the survey wasn’t applicable in all instances. There was also a handful of people who felt the questions were leading in some way. We appreciate all the comments as it will allow us to improve should we undertake something like this again.

We are not data experts either so the pages that follow are not analysed or accompanied by judgement. They just present the data as given and are therefore available for those interested to interpret as useful.

There are some extremely interesting data slices – some are very positive. For example, it’s great to hear of all the positive policies that many companies have in place. Some are very negative – the high percentage of people reporting on sexism and racism in the workplace is alarming.

We have tried to intersect some of the data that we found particularly interesting. If there is something you would like to know that we have missed, or is of special interest to you, please contact us and we will happily share that particular slice of information. We are happy to share data (in specific slices and totally anonymised) for you to preform your own analyses. Please look through the report, see if there is anything that interests you or that you would like to review further and let us know.

 

In the section where we asked if participants had anything else they wanted to tell us, it was overwhelming positive and we thank you all, both for undertaking the survey and for supporting the project. For the small percent that wrote negative comments, we are sorry that you didn’t understand the reason behind us undertaking the survey or the perhaps the reason for the WIL project at all.

According to UN Women’s most recent report delivered in March 2023, it stated that at the current rate of progress, it will take 286 years for the world to achieve gender equality. The World Economic Forum states will take 132 years to close the global gender gap. Regardless of which projection is most accurate, the bottom line is that the current rate of “progress” is unacceptably slow for something so long overdue. Let’s face it, it took until 2023 and Claudia Goldin winning the Nobel prize in Economics to prove that motherhood impacts the gender wage gap. We believe that the lighting industry should be doing its bit to move things forward.

We welcome everyone to join and to be part of inspiring women everywhere and helping us to grow the network wider, ultimately supporting diversity and equity in all aspects of lighting. We want everyone to join in because we only get better together.

The Report

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Past Gatherings

Global Gathering 2023 Global Gathering 2022 Global Gathering 2021

WIL 5th Anniversary

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Event

Video by Gerasimos Pavlidis
 

Today, we celebrate a big milestone: the 5th anniversary of the WIL project. Most of you know that Martin and I started this project because of a mistake we made and a challenge we received to right it. That mistake was the impetus to create the Women In Lighting initiative and to address the gender imbalance that we saw in our industry. On International Women’s Day in 2019, the WIL Project embarked on a transformative journey with a vision to create a more inclusive and diverse lighting community.

It set out to shine a spotlight on the previously often-underrepresented talents and voices of women in lighting. Since then, the project has been a beacon of inspiration and empowerment and has illuminated the path of 100’s of women in lighting and its associated fields, highlighting their achievements, challenges, and contributions to our industry.

We stand in complete awe of how this project has grown and evolved to create an international connected community involving 79 countries so far. The ever-expanding global network has not only provided a platform for women to share their stories and insights but has also fostered support, mentorship, collaboration, and innovation across continents. It has become a source of inspiration for both emerging and established professionals, encouraging a dialogue that transcends both borders and disciplines within lighting.

Whilst the project started off in architectural lighting, it has grown to encompass all areas of lighting creating a cross-pollination between women who work as light artists, engineers, in education and in entertainment plus any other areas where light is the prime medium. In making these connections, the project creates further opportunity to share knowledge, inspiration and achievements.

Women In Lighting is supported by design agency, Archifos, focusing on social media communications and has a project sponsor in the form of Hong Kong based architectural lighting manufacturer, formalighting and an entertainment lighting sponsor, French manufacturer, Aryton. Alongside the website resource and archive of 100s of interviews, WIL has hosted hundred of events, conferences, awards programs and many more local initiatives.


Personally, there have been many moments where have I have felt very proud or humbled by things that happen. I love seeing a random photo on social media with someone wearing a WIL T-shirt or looking around a room at a WIL event and seeing so many countries represented and sitting together. Being able to connect people together professionally or support someone who has personally reached out, make this such a valuable initiative. Being able to celebrate amazing women in the form of giving awards, create an initiative that kept us connected during Covid or try something new, like curate a book to promote women light artists has made this an exciting personal journey.

During Covid, WIL created a one-day virtual event for International Women’s Day, the Global Gathering. Throughout the day, the event shifted focus from Asia Pacific to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The Global Gathering ran again in 2022.

Last year, we undertook a “Global Gathering” of data on the lighting industry. Women In Lighting launched a survey aiming to look at the lighting profession in the context of theme of International Women’s Day 2023 - Embracing Equity. We wanted to gather a really comprehensive impression of the lighting industry both in terms of where it was doing well and where it need to improve. The results of the survey are now available and we hope that the results are a really valuable contribution to the profession as a whole.

We are often asked, Whats the point of WIL? Or I don’t get it or isn’t it time to stop going on about women or its divisive…

We disagree. Our digital platform is celebratory. The aims of the project have always been to try to do something that is primarily positive — we didn’t want to create a forum for negativity and felt that the best thing we could do was showcase the amazing work of women working in lighting from around the world.We felt that this would create visible role models for others in the industry who might be looking for people like them with the objective of encouraging and improving the diversity of all areas of the lighting industry.

Women In Lighting has used social activism to highlight and challenge unconscious bias in the industry via a strong social media presence that has built a large following. 10K on IG!  The project is also supported by individual women around the world - the WIL ambassadors.

The call for everyone to embrace feminism stems from a fundamental understanding of what feminism truly represents: the belief in and advocacy for equality of the sexes, encompassing not only women’s rights but also challenging systemic inequalities that affect people of all genders. We should all be feminists.

Feminism is not just for the benefit of women; it is a universal call to action for a more fair, inclusive, and equitable society. Its principles benefit everyone by challenging outdated norms, promoting equality, and advocating for the rights of all individuals.

Today is of course, International Women’s Day and the theme for 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Together, we can celebrate women’s achievement and together, we can raise awareness about discrimination. We can all Inspire Inclusion.

There is no membership, anyone is welcome to join the community and that offer is also extended to male supporters. We welcome everyone to join and to be part of inspiring women everywhere and helping us to grow the network wider, ultimately supporting diversity and equity in all aspects of lighting.

Today is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and strides made towards gender equality in our field. The Women in Lighting Project has brought to the forefront the exceptional work of women designers, engineers, artists, and educators, reminding us of the richness and diversity that inclusivity brings to our creative endeavours.

But it is not just about looking back; it’s also about envisioning the future. The journey towards equality and diversity in lighting design is ongoing, and the Women in Lighting Project plays a crucial role in steering this journey forward. As we move ahead, let us commit to supporting, uplifting, and amplifying the voices of women in our industry, recognising their invaluable contributions and potential to shape the future of lighting design.

In closing, we would like to thank all the ambassadors, contributors, and supporters of the Women in Lighting Project. You have not only made this initiative a success but have also ignited a global movement that continues to inspire and empower. We hope that the WIL project continues to shine brightly, guiding us towards a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant future in the lighting industry.

Presentations on 8th May

Opening talk by WIL founder Light Collective:

Jen Lewin – Enlightening Public Space: The Power of Interactive Light Art:

Ulrike Brandi – Reflections on 35 years of being a female lighting designer:

Julie Boniche – Our Secret Language: To Orchestrate Emotions:

Katia Kolovea – Introducting the WIL Ambassadors:

WIL Ambassadors:

IALD X WIL

March 7th 3—4pm
Topic: Inspirational Women

Six speakers, three men and three women present in a PechaKucha style. Drinks served.

Carla Wilkins

Lichtvision

Cherine Saroufim

WIL Ambassador to Lebanon

Andrea Hartranft

Hartranft Lighting

Philip Rafael

In’Sight Lighting Design

Amardeep Dugar

Lighting RN-D

Tejas Doshi

Light & Beyond

WIL 5 Year Anniversary Programme

March 8th 10am—2pm

Hall 3 Level 1, B50
Design Plaza, Hall 3.1

 

10:00

The WIL Project by Light Collective

10:30
Jen Lewin

Enlightening Public Space: The Power of Interactive Light Art

Jen Lewin / Jen Lewin Studio
Jen Lewin is an American installation artist who is known around the world for her public, interactive light landscapes. As visitors walk, dance, jump and play across her installations, they are able to generate an infinite amount of changes to the works’ colors and reflections. Inspired by light and reflection that occurs in nature, Lewin’s installations—though often temporary—are always site specific and designed to interact within their natural environment. Jen has shown that art has the transformative capability to bring together communities and make the world feel a little more connected.  Jen currently lives and works in New York, NY.
11:00
Ulrike Brandi

Reflections on 35 years of being a female lighting designer

Ulrike Brandi / Ulrike Brandi Licht
Ulrike Brandi is an internationally active lighting planner based in Hamburg. Since 1987, her office has realised more than 1,000 projects (indoor and outdoor spaces) and she has worked with the most important architects of our time. She has published numerous publications on the subject of light and is a sought-after expert, she regularly speaks and teaches on international stages. She also runs her own Institute for Light and Design.
11:30
Julie Boniche

Our Secret Language: To Orchestrate Emotions

Julie Boniche / Moment Factory
As a multimedia director, Julie Boniche is constantly looking for new creative ways to create memorable immersive experiences for the audience, each project needing to achieve a perfect balance between visual impact and emotional storytelling. Initially a set and lighting designer, she worked for several years in the world of opera and theatre, and also contributed to the development of the immersive experience department at ACTLD.com in Belgium.

Today, Julie is in charge of the creative vision of projects at Moment Factory. She manages a talented creative team that pushes the limits of creativity, motivated by the connection between the audience and the immersive experience. Meticulous, creative and blessed with a collaborative nature, Julie is an essential asset for Moment Factory. As she has the ability to take on both more intimate projects and large-scale events. Julie’s recent achievements include the Grand Magic Hotel and the Alta Lumina course in Les Gets in which she collaborated. 
12:00

Introduction by Katia Kolovea

Archifos
12:15

WIL Ambassadors

Martina Frattura

R.A.W. Blogger

Giorgia Brusemini

WIL Ambassador in Italy

Magali Mendez

WIL Ambassador in Mexico

Momena Saleem

WIL Ambassador in Pakistan

Surbhi Jindal

WIL Ambassador in India
12:45

Networking with drinks

14:00

End of Event

WIL Global Gathering 2023

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Note: The results of the survey was published on 8 March 2024.

Read the Survey Results

Happy International Women’s Day to WIL and WIL Supporters All Over the World!

This year the WIL project isn't bringing you an event. Instead, we call upon you to help us create a global gathering of information by completing our survey.

The theme for this years International Women's Day is #Embrace Equity and with this survey, we hope to do just that. We want to embrace equity in regard to working practice in all aspects of the lighting industry.

In order to embrace it, we need to investigate it. Our hope is that this global gathering of data will not only highlight where equity is problematic but also where it is positively thriving.

This anonymous survey originates from WIL but it’s for everyone. We want everyone to join in because we only get better together.

The more responses we get, the better the end data so please share this with all your colleagues and friends in lighting.

Join the Global Gathering


It may originate from the Women In Lighting project but it’s for everyone. We want everyone to join in because we only get better together.

Everything in this expansive survey is anonymous and all questions are optional. If you think that answering a particular question acts as an identifier or makes you uncomfortable in any way, please move on to the next question. All results will be shared as aggregated data only. The more responses we get, the better the end data so please share this with your colleagues and friends in lighting.

Questions came from women and men around the world and we thank everyone that responded with suggestions.  Some questions may seem irrelevant but we want to cross reference many different things. For example, job fulfilment, digital equity and well-being can all be cross referenced through the lens of gender equity. Our hope is for a large international response.

It will take about 20 minutes of your time. If interrupted, your data will be saved and you can always come back and finish it later.

Past Gatherings

Global Gathering 2022 Global Gathering 2021

Collected Light – Milan

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Exhibitions: MilanArtworks&Artists/London/Hong Kong  // The Books: Vol. 1 / Vol. 3

An intimate showcase of work by five female artists

Following a successful debut and book launch in London, the Collected Light Exhibition tours to Milan, with the addition of two new artworks.

This intimate exhibition features a range of mediums, from neon to projection and created between 2019 and 2023. Previously shown in November at boutique gallery, SoShiro in London, the space will be open to experience work from Kate McMillan (UK/AU), Karolina Halatek (PL), Jacqueline Hen (DE), Tamar Frank (NL), Lauren Baker (UK) and Chila Kumari Burman Singh (UK) and two new pieces, one from Liz West (UK) and one from Kate Hush (USA).

Cascina Cuccagna
Via Cuccagna 2, 20135 Milano, Italy
12th—14th April 2023 (By invitation)

Express Interest

The Artists

Collected Light – Milan

Chila Kumari Singh Burman is celebrated for her radical feminist practice which examines representation, gender and cultural identity. She works across a wide range of mediums including printmaking, drawing, painting, installation and film.

Born in Bootle, to Punjabi-Hindu parents, she attended Southport College of Art, Leeds Polytechnic and the Slade School of Fine Art. A key figure in the British Black Arts movement in the 1980s, Burman has since remained rooted in her understanding of the diverse nature of culture. Continually seeking to break stereotypes and emancipate the image of women, she often uses self-portraiture as a tool of empowerment and self-determination.

Collected Light – Milan

Jacqueline Hen is an Artist and Spatial Designer working on large-scale performative installations and environments.

Her works investigate the perception of body and space in the intersection of physical and digital habitats. She was awarded with the International Light Art Award 2019 for her work Light High.

She was appointed “Meisterschülerin” at the University of the Arts Berlin in 2019.

Read WIL R.A.W blog's interview with Jacqueline.

Collected Light – Milan

Karolina Halatek is a Polish artist who uses light as the central medium in her work to create experiential site-specific work.

Seeing her work primarily as a catalyst for experience, Halatek’s installations have remarkable immersive characteristics which are often the result of collaborations with quantum physicists, founders of the superstring theory (Leonard Susskind, Roger Penrose, Carlo Rovelli) and precision mechanical engineers.

Read Karolina's Interview on WIL.

Collected Light – Milan

Part informally trained and part self taught at the back of a sign shop in Brooklyn, New York, Kate Hush has been creating light sculptures in the medium of neon for the past decade. Taking part in every step of the process, from conception to electrification, she has been shaping visual vignettes of not so righteous women who can’t help but glow among the dark. Inspired by the demeanor and imagery of film noir, and the feminine wit of artists such as Cindy Sherman; Kate found it both appropriate and an epiphany to sculpt these thrilling women out of hot fire and sharp glass. Her work is a unique feminist and humorous turn among the usual masculine minimalism, or uber-saccharine-text heavy medium. Kate’s work has been featured in galleries, museums, fine art publications, as well as commissioned for several high profile ad campaigns. She is currently building an art and fabrication studio in Detroit, Michigan, which she hopes to expand into an education facility so those who normally wouldn’t have access to the medium can get a chance to jump into the neon fires.

Collected Light – Milan

Dr Kate McMillan is an artist based in London. She works across media including film, sound, installation, sculpture, and performance. Her work addresses a number of key ideas including the role of art in attending to impacts of the Anthropocene, lost and systemically forgotten histories of women, and the residue of colonial violence in the present. In addition to her practice, McMillan also addresses these issues in her activist and written work. She is the author of the annual report 'Representation of Female Artists in Britain' commissioned by the Freelands Foundation.

Her recent academic monograph 'Contemporary Art & Unforgetting in Colonial Landscapes: Empire of Islands' (2019, Palgrave Macmillan) explored the work of a number of first nation female artists from the global south, whose work attends to the aftermath of colonial violence in contemporary life. McMillan is currently a Senior Lecturer in Creative Practice at King's College, London.

Collected Light – Milan

Liz West (b.1985) is a British artist known for her wide-ranging works, from the intimate to the monumental. Using a variety of materials and exploring the use of light, she blurs the boundaries between sculpture, architecture, design and painting to create works that are both playful and immersive. West has been commissioned worldwide by institutions and organisations including Natural History Museum, London Design Festival, Paris Fashion Week, Milan Design Week, National Trust, National Science and Media Museum, Dubai Design Week, Natural England, Salford University, Fortnum & Mason and Bristol Biennial. West’s work has been included in exhibitions at St Albans Museum + Gallery, Chester Cathedral, Compton Verney, Musée Nissim de Camondo in Paris, Kraftwerk Berlin, Tripostal Lille and Bangalore International Centre.

Collected Light – Milan

Born in 1974 in Amsterdam Netherlands Tamar Frank graduated in Fine Arts/ Monumental Design in 1997 at the Fine Arts Academy in Maastricht. Using light as a medium already started during her studies and she presented her first light installations at her graduation show.

With focus on public space and light Frank established a name in the light art. Her biggest commission to date is for two towers of a residential building West Pender Place in Vancouver which was completed in 2011.

In 2019 she released a book ‘Lightspace 20 years Tamar Frank’ A retrospective of all her work from 1997 to 2017.

Read WIL R.A.W blog's interview with Tamar.

The Artworks

Peacock, 2020 by Chila Singh Burman: Burman is celebrated for her radical feminist practice which examines representation, gender and cultural identity. Peacock was part of the hugely popular neon installation on the exterior of the Tate Britain ‘Remembering A Brave New World’ in 2020. She explains “my Peacock piece explores the birds’ symbolism of re-growth, rejuvenation, beauty and love. The peacock is native to the Indian subcontinent, in this way it is also a reference to my Indian heritage.” Burman works across a wide range of mediums including printmaking, drawing, painting, installation and film.

 

Off Grid

Off Grid Series, 2022 by Jacqueline Hen: This installation investigates the perception of the body in space in the face of the digital realm. How is social media influencing our perception and interaction with the physical space? Mirrors and an arrangement of lights create the illusion of an infinite space of luminosity and darkness. The perception of this space changes with the viewer's perspective inviting them to investigate their self within infinity.

 

Halo, 2019 by Karolina Halatek: The circular-shaped immersive installation is designed to draw out a very personal experience. Visitors interacting with the work have the possibility of discovering a new dimension of their own presence in the contemplative, pure and abstract environment. The title ‘Halo’ refers to the natural optical phenomena seen around the sun or moon, produced by light in the interaction of ice crystals. The place of the celestial body is given to the art viewer, who becomes a central part of the piece. Halatek is a Polish artist who uses light as a catalyst for experience. She often collaborates with non-artists including quantum physicists, founders of the superstring theory (Leonard Susskind, Roger Penrose, Carlo Rovelli) and precision mechanical engineers.

 

A Wade in the River Rouge, 2023 by Kate Hush: America, June 2022, (and elsewhere, earlier and future) the return of Wade and lost control. But in the inky red brine of the River Rouge, one can float from her natal shore to where the womb is unshackled, free to bear, or to restore. With her head above water and a steely soused gait, she will rid every Wade in the brew or on the banks. For a mother, for a daughter, for a sister; for a pilgrim in the field of a potter. For those who cannot ford the water. She is risen and has rejected the bridle.
Above: The First One's Always Free by Kate Hush

 

The Lost Girl, 2020 by Kate McMillan: The Lost Girl is an immersive film-based installation centred around the fictional character of a cave-dwelling girl on the east coast of England. Using DH Lawrence's book of the same name as a starting point, the film narrates the experiences of a young woman seemingly alone in a dystopian future, with only the debris washed up from the ocean to form meaning and language. The film combines McMillan’s various research interests including the Anthropocene; the role of creativity in forming memory and the consequences of neglecting female histories. McMillan is based in London and is the author of the annual report 'Representation of Female Artists in Britain' commissioned by the Freelands Foundation.

 

Her Warm Reflection, 2023 by Liz West: Her Warm Reflection creates a conversation between the viewer and the setting using 120 mirrors made of coloured acrylic. The work is comprised of discs with diameters of 30, 40, 50 and 60cm in 8 colours which are set at different heights so that they reflect both the structure of the space and the people who inhabit it, revealing parts of the architecture that would otherwise be invisible, and project warm and rich colours up into the interior. It is playful, elegant, engaging and thoughtful. There is an element of performance to this work; it puts the audience to the fore, demanding a response; physically, emotionally, psychologically or even spiritually. Viewers each have their own perspectives and their own experiences tempered by movement through the space and through time.
Above: Our Colour Reflection, 2020 by Liz West

 

In Lucem, 2019 by Tamar Frank: A series of 20 small light panels illustrate – 4 of which are on display at this exhibition- a seemingly still image with a central focus that gradually blends into different colour compositions. The colour gradients are inspired by the changes in natural light over the course of one day and change very slowly so that the transition itself is not perceived. The artwork is a response to the perception of light as a natural presence. The central focus invites the spectator to slow down and allow the light to draw the viewer in. The diffusion of the image does not allow the eye to focus. As a result, the image will appear to pulsate and float.

 

All the artists are featured in a new book Collected Light Volume One: Women Light Artists also curated by Light Collective.

About the Book

Photos

Supporters

FORMALIGHTING

Unifying formalighting’s heritage and principles, with their wealth of experience in lighting museums and galleries, it is a genuine privilege for formalighting to be supporting Light Collective with the Collected Light exhibition and inspiring book launch.

The future of light is moving, and formalighting are proud to have innovated the world of motorized remote controlled lighting through its MOTOLUX range, a pioneering solution for aiming and focusing light, perfect for museums and galleries. MOTOLUX is used throughout the SOSHIRO gallery.

Cascina Cuccagna

Cascina Cuccagna is a 17th century farmhouse, which has been lovingly restored and reopened to the public in 2012. The building serves as a centre for culture and sustainability projects and acts as an agricultural outpost in the middle of Milan to revive the vital relationship between the city and countryside. The kitchen is run by chef Nicola Cavallaro specialising in raw ingredients with zero food miles.

Press

Milan Design Week, arc Issue 134

COLLECTED LIGHT: WOMEN LIGHT ARTIST DURANTE LA MILANO ART WEEK, Luxemozione, 17 May 2023

Collected Light – The Book

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Exhibitions: London/Milan/Hong Kong // The Books: Vol. 1 / Vol. 3

Hardcover, 252 pages, 2023
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 173914161X / ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1739141615

Purchase Hardcover Book*: Italy / France / Germany / Netherlands / Poland / Spain / Sweden / UK / USA

Purchase eBook

 

“After 25 plus years in the world of light, it became apparent, that there is an onus on and huge visibility of male artists who work with or have worked with light within their body of work. Many are well known names and are often cited as inspiration in the work of lighting designers. Whilst, there are a few names that come up when discussing female light artists - the financially successful artist; Yayoi Kusama, the political rebel; Jenny Holzer and lover of daylight; Nancy Holt, like the rest of the art world, the exposure of their work is less and our knowledge of light artists remains unbalanced in terms of gender. If you want to prove this further, just type the words “Light Artist” into Google - out of the first 15 artists shown by the world’s leading search engine only two are female.”

The Women in Lighting project inspired Light Collective to look at all aspects of representation in the field of light. They found and researched over 150 women creating light based art which led to the curation of the book — a small step towards trying to redress the unfair imbalance in visibility and will be available for purchase at both the exhibition and online, after the event has finished.

Light Collective asked over 40 women to participate by sharing images of their work. From immersive environments to reactive light, beautiful glowing objects to light that tells a story, this collection of light art from women artists includes a multitude of manipulations of the medium. Directing the viewer to contemplate colour, nature, politics, life and even death, the true power of light as an artistic medium is perfectly portrayed by the artists included.

Artists featured: Aleksandra Stratimirovic, Chila Kumari Singh Burman, Christine Istad & Lisa Pacini, Claudia Paz, Claudia Robles-Angel, Dorothy Tanner, Elisa Artesero, Esther Rolinson, Frankie Boyle, Gunda Förster, Helga Griffiths, Jacqueline Hen, Jen Lewin, Kamila Staszczyszyn, Karolina Halatek, Kate Hush, Kate McMillan, Katie Paterson, Laura Bayliss, Lauren Baker, Liliane Lijn, Ling-Li Tseng, Liz West, Lyn Godley, Maja Petric, Martina Tritthart, Motoko Ishii & Akari-Lisa Ishii, Nandita Palchoudhuri, Paula Castillo T, Rebeca Sanchez Pastor, Sabine de Schutter, Sarah Blood, Soo Sunny Park, Stefanie Egedy & Camille Laurent, Synthestruct, Tamar Frank, Tine Bech, Titia Ex, Tracey Emin, Victoria Coeln, Yoko Seyama and Yvette Mattern.

“Our hope is that by profiling these women artists who use light within their work, we are opening a door for others to do the same and for all to be celebrated and widely known for what they create. We also hope that the beauty of each piece of work offers inspiration to those who discover it and, whilst created by women, is valued as incredible art, non-dependent on gender.”

Register for Book Updates

Press

Spot On, ELLE Decoration NL, Winter Edition, November 2024

LIKE 4 LIGHT, an interview with Light Collective, IALD Mexico, 11 May 2023

'Women Light Artists': a collection of light art that includes manipulations of the medium, stirworld, Apr 14 2023

The faces of light in 3 recent books: on art, lighting and lighthouses, Salone del Mobile

Collected Light, arc Issue 129

Women Light Artists, un reconocimiento a las artistas femeninas, Lightecture, Oct 2022

 

*Some of the above links are generated from the Light Collective membership of the Amazon Associates program. This means we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — it does not affect the purchase price to you in any way.

Collected Light – London

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Exhibitions: LondonArtworks&The Artists/Milan/Hong Kong// The Books: Vol. 1 / Vol. 3

An intimate showcase of work by five female artists

Collected Light Exhibition comprises six artworks created by six different female artists, curated by Sharon Stammers and Martin Lupton of Light Collective and displayed at boutique gallery, SoShiro in London, with the support of formalighting.

This intimate exhibition features a range of mediums, from neon to projection and created between 2019 and 2022. Experience works from Chila Kumari Burman Singh (UK), Jacqueline Hen (DE), Karolina Halatek (PL), Kate McMillan (UK/AU), Lauren Baker (UK) and Tamar Frank (NL).

SoShiro Gallery
23 Welbeck Street, London W1G 8DZ
14th–18th November 2022: Invited guests only
19th–25th November 2022: Ticketed entry

Get Tickets

Collected Light is part of the Women In Lighting project and the start of the creation of a permanent collection made up solely of women light artists. After London, the exhibition will tour to other cities with the addition of more women light artists.

The Artists

Collected Light – London

Chila Kumari Singh Burman is celebrated for her radical feminist practice which examines representation, gender and cultural identity. She works across a wide range of mediums including printmaking, drawing, painting, installation and film.

Born in Bootle, to Punjabi-Hindu parents, she attended Southport College of Art, Leeds Polytechnic and the Slade School of Fine Art. A key figure in the British Black Arts movement in the 1980s, Burman has since remained rooted in her understanding of the diverse nature of culture. Continually seeking to break stereotypes and emancipate the image of women, she often uses self-portraiture as a tool of empowerment and self-determination.

Collected Light – London

Jacqueline Hen is an Artist and Spatial Designer working on large-scale performative installations and environments.

Her works investigate the perception of body and space in the intersection of physical and digital habitats. She was awarded with the International Light Art Award 2019 for her work Light High.

She was appointed “Meisterschülerin” at the University of the Arts Berlin in 2019.

Read WIL R.A.W blog's interview with Jacqueline.

Collected Light – London

Karolina Halatek is a Polish artist who uses light as the central medium in her work to create experiential site-specific work.

Seeing her work primarily as a catalyst for experience, Halatek’s installations have remarkable immersive characteristics which are often the result of collaborations with quantum physicists, founders of the superstring theory (Leonard Susskind, Roger Penrose, Carlo Rovelli) and precision mechanical engineers.

Read Karolina's Interview on WIL.

Collected Light – London

Dr Kate McMillan is an artist based in London. She works across media including film, sound, installation, sculpture, and performance. Her work addresses a number of key ideas including the role of art in attending to impacts of the Anthropocene, lost and systemically forgotten histories of women, and the residue of colonial violence in the present. In addition to her practice, McMillan also addresses these issues in her activist and written work. She is the author of the annual report 'Representation of Female Artists in Britain' commissioned by the Freelands Foundation.

Her recent academic monograph 'Contemporary Art & Unforgetting in Colonial Landscapes: Empire of Islands' (2019, Palgrave Macmillan) explored the work of a number of first nation female artists from the global south, whose work attends to the aftermath of colonial violence in contemporary life. McMillan is currently a Senior Lecturer in Creative Practice at King's College, London.

Collected Light – London

Lauren Baker is a British contemporary multidisciplinary artist who exhibits internationally. Her work explores human connections, metaphysics and the expansiveness of the universe. Lauren's signature neon works portray the power of energy through her poetic typographic and celestial chakra artworks. Passionate about environmental issues and sustainability, Lauren uses light to express the 'secrets of the universe' and aims to raise the vibration of love and connection within the world.

Lauren’s work involves making the unseen seen and her visual style is often built around either emitting or reflecting light. Many of her pieces directly reference the frequencies emitted by astronomical bodies, as well as those attributed to plants, human organs and chakras.

Collected Light – London

Born in 1974 in Amsterdam Netherlands Tamar Frank graduated in Fine Arts/ Monumental Design in 1997 at the Fine Arts Academy in Maastricht. Using light as a medium already started during her studies and she presented her first light installations at her graduation show.

With focus on public space and light Frank established a name in the light art. Her biggest commission to date is for two towers of a residential building West Pender Place in Vancouver which was completed in 2011.

In 2019 she released a book ‘Lightspace 20 years Tamar Frank’ A retrospective of all her work from 1997 to 2017.

Read WIL R.A.W blog's interview with Tamar.

The Artworks

Peacock, 2020 by Chila Singh Burman: Burman is celebrated for her radical feminist practice which examines representation, gender and cultural identity. Peacock was part of the hugely popular neon installation on the exterior of the Tate Britain ‘Remembering A Brave New World’ in 2020. She explains “my Peacock piece explores the birds’ symbolism of re-growth, rejuvenation, beauty and love. The peacock is native to the Indian subcontinent, in this way it is also a reference to my Indian heritage.” Burman works across a wide range of mediums including printmaking, drawing, painting, installation and film.

 

Off Grid

Off Grid Series, 2022 by Jacqueline Hen: This installation investigates the perception of the body in space in the face of the digital realm. How is social media influencing our perception and interaction with the physical space? Mirrors and an arrangement of lights create the illusion of an infinite space of luminosity and darkness. The perception of this space changes with the viewer's perspective inviting them to investigate their self within infinity.

 

Halo, 2019 by Karolina Halatek: The circular-shaped immersive installation is designed to draw out a very personal experience. Visitors interacting with the work have the possibility of discovering a new dimension of their own presence in the contemplative, pure and abstract environment. The title ‘Halo’ refers to the natural optical phenomena seen around the sun or moon, produced by light in the interaction of ice crystals. The place of the celestial body is given to the art viewer, who becomes a central part of the piece. Halatek is a Polish artist who uses light as a catalyst for experience. She often collaborates with non-artists including quantum physicists, founders of the superstring theory (Leonard Susskind, Roger Penrose, Carlo Rovelli) and precision mechanical engineers.

 

The Lost Girl, 2020 by Kate McMillan: The Lost Girl is an immersive film-based installation centred around the fictional character of a cave-dwelling girl on the east coast of England. Using DH Lawrence's book of the same name as a starting point, the film narrates the experiences of a young woman seemingly alone in a dystopian future, with only the debris washed up from the ocean to form meaning and language. The film combines McMillan’s various research interests including the Anthropocene; the role of creativity in forming memory and the consequences of neglecting female histories. McMillan is based in London and is the author of the annual report 'Representation of Female Artists in Britain' commissioned by the Freelands Foundation.

 

Stardust - The Deep Field (Lenticular), 2018 by Lauren Baker: A six-image lenticular backed by an LED light box, described by Baker as depicting ‘a galactic explosion of shooting stars and space matter’. Because of the way the lenticular lenses shift how the images are perceived, moving past the artwork brings it to life: suggesting a celestial dance of explosion and implosion, separation and unison, change and repetition. The artwork depicts a galactic explosion of shooting stars and space matter, inspired by the findings of the Hubble telescope. Hubble’s glimpse into what is known as the deep field has highlighted that we are just one tiny part of a vast system comprising of 100 billion galaxies. As people walk past, the 6 images appear and merge into one another from different angles, creating a moving image of an exploding star.

 

In Lucem, 2019 by Tamar Frank: A series of 20 small light panels illustrate – 4 of which are on display at this exhibition- a seemingly still image with a central focus that gradually blends into different colour compositions. The colour gradients are inspired by the changes in natural light over the course of one day and change very slowly so that the transition itself is not perceived. The artwork is a response to the perception of light as a natural presence. The central focus invites the spectator to slow down and allow the light to draw the viewer in. The diffusion of the image does not allow the eye to focus. As a result, the image will appear to pulsate and float.

 

All the artists are featured in a new book Collected Light Volume One: Women Light Artists also curated by Light Collective.

About the Book

Reviews & Photos

Photo by David Thrower Photo by David Thrower Photo by David Thrower Photo by David Thrower Photo by David Thrower Photo by Gavriil Papadiotis (www.gavriilux.com) Photo by David Thrower

“The works are very varied, with different presentations, effects and experiences throughout the exhibition. Thank you very much for formalighting for hosting us and for the lovely gift bag! Brava Women in Lighting, Light Collective! I can see how much work has gone into this showcase to promote women artists. Wonderful work, as always! ❤️”
Rachel Flint - MGA

“Tangible moments of light” Thank you for such an inspiring Tuesday morning of breakfast and art formalighting. Marina Pippi and myself went to see the Collected Light exhibition at SoShiro gallery. We celebrated the work of women light artist, and also got to support Light Collective with the launch of their book. Great to see the incredible things happening in the lighting industry again. Cannot wait to see what’s next.”
Shevokie Allen - Nulty

“A quite lovely evening. Thank you so much for the invite Light Collective. Congratulations on this exhibition and of course the new book. The gallery space is glorious. Enjoy the rest of the week with your daily Collected Light sessions, sprinkling the week in some much needed light and joy."
April Dorrian - The Light Retreat

“Immersed in a little enlightenment, inspiration and intellectual indulgence after work last night. Big thanks to Light Collective and FORMA LIGHTING (ITALIA) S.R.L. for the invitation to the #CollectedLight book launch and exhibition private view at SoShiro gallery. It’s invigorating to see so many outstanding women light artists around the world showcased besides Tracey Emin and Liz West.
Great talk by the artist Karolina Halatek. HALO is mesmerising!”
Florence Lam - Arup

“About tonight…. thanks formalighting and Light Collective for a wonderful treat of an evening. Collected Light is a showcase of work by women light artists, presented in the intimate setting of SoShiro gallery. The exhibition was curated by Light Collective with the support of formalighting as part of the Women in Lighting project.”
Juan Ferrari - Hoare Lea

“Huge thanks to formalighting, Light Collective and Women In Lighting for the invite to the opening night of their Collected Light exhibition, celebrating the amazing work of women light artists, and the launch of their very cool new book! Great to see some wonderful works of light art up close and personal.”
Matt Waring - arc magazine

“If you haven't already been, the #collectedlight art exhibition at the SoShiro Gallery is a fantastic curation of works by women light artists, brought together by @lightcollective and formalighting."
Daniel Green - Into

“A collection of pieces by women light artists, curated by Martin and Sharon at @LightCollective and enthusiastically supported by formalighting.
And if you do have the time... and the patience...  here's a musing:
If Art is a distillation of the human condition and Light is, most commonly, simply the carrier of that distillation - from Art piece to eye/brain - what happens when Light becomes the Art medium?
This is a show that requires a resetting of the neural network”
John Bullock - The Light Review

“It was an incredible show.”
Marcus Steffen - MS Lighting

“Thanks so much for such inspiring night, surrounded by beautiful light installation and amazing company ✨️  Having the opportunity of looking at these beautiful light art at SoShiro was such a blessing!”
Arianna Ghezzi - LDI

“We are proud supporters of Women In Lighting, and having just run a series of Women Lighting Engineer profiles in the Lighting Journal magazine, now its great to see Women Light Artists being celebrated in the wonderful new book 'Collected Light'. There's a mix of people you will know from ILP events, super famous artists, and new faces to be inspired by. Well done Sharon Stammers and Martin Lupton on the fantastic book which is making its way to the ILP library. Special mentions to Chila Kumari Burman Liz West Sabine De Schutter Frankie Boyle April Dorrian Sharon Maghnagi Nancy Kukukhil for spreading the joy of light art. Congratulations all round.”
Jess Gallacher - the ILP

“Just a quick message to say thank you for yesterday! What you did for WIL is truly amazing! it’s very inspiring to see in person such artwork and hear the female artist talk! It’s empowering! However, me being me I think i most connected with the lost girl in the top floor room”
Greta Smetoniute

“Mind totally blown by all of the talent and passion that has gone into the #CollectedLight exhibition! We had a fantastic time last night and cannot thank SoShiro Gallery, Sharon Stammers, Sharon Maghnagi, Martin Lupton, Ettore Lecchi, and the rest of the team for organizing. And thank you to Jacqueline Hen for discussing your artwork with us; there's definitely a trip to Germany in the near future to see it in person!”
Kael Gillam - Hoare Lea

“Anyone that knows me knows I ❤️ light art, and enjoy seeing it as much as I can. Yesterday I had the privilege of seeing the #collectedlight exhibition by Light Collective & Women in lighting. 6 beautiful exhibits all by fabulous female light artists. They were all amazing”
Mig Burgess - ABTT

"I’ve just came back from London where I had the pleasure to loose myself in the luminous atmospheres of the exhibition #collectedLight #womeninlightartist, deeply wanted by the brilliant minds of Sharon Stammers and Martin Lupton , supported be Formalighiting and hosted by Soshiro Gallery. Every time I immerse myself in the work of artists who use light as a primary expressive medium, I always see something new and magical that enriches my visual memory. It is fantastic to meet live for the first time people known only virtually in the past three years, thanks to the #womeninlighting community, and to see colleagues with whom it is important to connect, even just to celebrate."
Giorgia Brusemini - WIL Italy

"Massive thank you to Light Collective and formalighting for such a wonderful and influential evening, celebrating women light artists and showcasing beautiful art pieces at SoShiro gallery!”
Agata Tyburska - Light 360

“It was a beautiful evening.”
Seraphina Gogate - Cundall

"I really enjoyed the Collected Light exhibition and launch, and I never dreamed I would ever have lunch with Chila Burman! It feels almost like I dreamt the day. The book is utterly inspiring and a joy to dip in and out of. It will eventually be kept in the library of the Institution of Lighting Professionals for members to read... but selfishly I'm hanging onto it for a few more weeks yet until I have savoured every page. The ILP has always been happy to support the Women in Lighting initiative, and we wish the movement every success as it continues.”
Jess Gallacher - ILP

"I’m proud to be part of this well curated group of innovative females. The level of creativity and standard of work is beyond. It's super cool to highlight women working in lighting."
Lauren Baker

"SoShiro, una galería íntima y especial para mostrar el trabajo lumínico de seis artistas mujeres. Gracias Difusiona por organizar la visita y a Light Collective por la curadoria.”
Esther Torello - Lightecture

"A unique experience at the SoShiro last week at the Collected Light exhibition! Thank you Light Collective and all women in light art!”
Anna Sbokou - AS Light

"It was really nice to meet everyone and what a stunning venue too! A beautiful showcase all around.”
Amy Griffiths - Nulty

Supporters

FORMALIGHTING

Unifying formalighting’s heritage and principles, with their wealth of experience in lighting museums and galleries, it is a genuine privilege for formalighting to be supporting Light Collective with the Collected Light exhibition and inspiring book launch.

The future of light is moving, and formalighting are proud to have innovated the world of motorized remote controlled lighting through its MOTOLUX range, a pioneering solution for aiming and focusing light, perfect for museums and galleries. MOTOLUX is used throughout the SOSHIRO gallery.

SOSHIRO

Founded by designer and creative director, Shiro Muchiri, SoShiro is a collaborative platform, consultancy, event space and shop that nurtures, celebrates and communicates our artistic and cultural diversity. It is SoShiro’s mission to bring the richness of the world's art, design and craft into the popular imagination in a way that is exciting, relevant and mutually beneficial to all.

Press

Collected Light, exibart.com

Light Work, FX 330

Collected Light, arc Issue 131

Collected Light: An Experience in Storytelling with Light, designing lighting (dl) magazine, DEC 2022

A review of COLLECTED LIGHT, London 2022, The Light Review, 18 Nov 22

12 of the most exciting new art exhibitions in London to see this winter, The Glossary, 9 Nov 2022

HAPPENINGS IN MARYLEBONE, MARYLEBONE JOURNAL, ISSUE NO.97

Introducing the Artists Who Are Part of Collected Light, design lighting, 11 Oct 2022

The Panel

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The jury will select 6 × Favourites from all eligible entries received. A scoring system will be used to determine Favourites and the decision of the panel of jury will be final. This will include 2 × entrants in each category.

The 6 × Favourites need to be available for a video interview with the WIL organisers that will be recorded and added to the WIL website.

The Panel

Esther Torello Spain / lightecture

Esther Torelló is the editor and publisher of lightecture, an online and printed magazine focused on lighting and the culture of light. Great defender of lighting design, she is also responsible for press and communication of the Spanish Professional Association of Lighting Designers -APDI- and ambassador in Spain of Women in Lighting. Fascinated by light, Esther has become a specialist in light contents and has participated  in numerous juries, congresses and international events for more than 20 years.

lightecture is an online platform designed specifically for the needs of the community of professionals and individuals interested in light and lighting design that provides information and quality content, publishes the work of leading designers as well as novelties and technological advances developed by the industry. lightecture intends to be a useful and attractive tool for a collective of lighting designers, architects, interior and industrial designers, artists and all those who are passionate about the endless possibilities that light brings into interiors and exterior spaces.

The Panel

Geewel Fuster Philippines / BluPrint

Geewel acquired her Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Santo Tomas in 2009. After graduation she immediately worked as a Project Architect at Jonathan O. Gan and Associates where she gained her training not only in the architecture profession but in interior design as well. Two years after, in 2011, after passing the licensure exam, she decided to join her family’s construction firm to spearhead the greater success of the company. As a creative, Geewel also loves fashion as much as she loves architecture and design. Her fascination about fashion led her to taking up a short course on fashion branding at SoFa Design Institute and eventually it paved the way for her to create her own brand. She just recently launched her very own lifestyle and fashion brand, Akin Collective. AKIN is a curated collaboration collective, a platform that was built to create meaningful line of special work or art in areas of home, lifestyle, and fashion. The brand intentionally source pieces that focuses on cultivating both local and international brands.

BluPrint has had 21 successful years of designing and refining every aspect of architecture with its selection of meaningful subjects and unique stories and is now heading on to a digital platform aiming to inspire everyone to adapt to the rise of new innovations, philosophies, and design solutions suitable to our ever-changing environment. BluPrint has always been a brand that reaches out and promotes Filipino culture, roots, and heritage in architecture and designs. Over the years, the brand has been able to maintain connections to our south east asian networks and also start to build a conversation outside Asia.

The Panel

Mervi Rokka Sweden / Ljuskultur

Mervi Rokka is an editor for the Swedish lighting magazine Ljuskultur. She has been working within the lighting business for more 30 years. In addition to editing and developing the magazine, she is engaged in gathering the Swedish lighting professionals to the early event Ljusdagen and working for to draw attention to the lighting issue in society and among the potential customers.

Ljuskultur is the only magazine in Sweden devoted to lighting and reaches out to the Swedish lighting planners and the decision-makers. Ljuskultur has been published for over 90 years and aims to inform and inspire to the use of good, sustainable lighting solutions. It addresses interesting projects and new lighting technology. Further interviews interesting lighting professionals, active in Sweden and round the world.

The Panel

Patrick McCumiskey United Kingdom / warmwhite

Patrick McCumiskey is a lighting designer and communications specialist. After graduating from the lighting design masters degree at the Politecnico di Milano in 2017, Patrick worked as a lighting designer for Licht Kunst Licht before starting his own independent design consultancy.  Combining his experience in journalism, communications and lighting design, Patrick also created warmwhite, an online magazine dedicated to the exploration of new perspectives in lighting and design.

warmwhite is an online platform dedicated to the exploration of new perspectives on architectural and decorative lighting and design through original journalism and interviews. Warmwhite also offers bespoke creative consulting and communications services for lighting manufacturers and studios working with light.

The Panel

RANDY REID USA / designing lighting (dl)

Randy Reid began his career in 1983 with GE Lighting and has also served as President of the Illuminating Engineering Society in 2002-2003. Furthermore, Randy has been a member of the LIGHTFAIR Management Committee, 2001-2003 and served on the LIGHTFAIR Advisory Committee in 2006. In 2019, Reid was appointed the Executive Director of the National Lighting Bureau—a non-profit organization dedicated to high benefit lighting and since 1999, Mr. Reid has published the EdisonReport, a site for news and information in the lighting industry. In 2020, Reid started designing lighting, a magazine focused on The Business of Lighting Design. Reid also conducts a daily podcast, “Today in Lighting.” and has served as a juror for the IESNYC Lumen Awards, LIT Design Award, and 40 under 40.

designing lighting (dl) is an online magazine focused on The Business of Lighting Design™.  The magazine was founded by Randy Reid in 2020 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The goal of the magazine is to publish news and information about the Business of Lighting Design™and is published bi-monthly. Amongst many other features, each issue features at least two detailed design jobs where the lighting designer is interviewed. In addition to the magazine dl launched a website, designinglighting.com which lists daily news of importance to lighting designers and has a vast database of projects that have won lighting awards.

The Panel

Sarah Cullen UK / DARC MAGAZINE

With a degree in Photography and Journalism, Sarah has always had a strong interest in story telling through various mediums. Gathering various work experiences across both creative fields, she landed a new role as Editorial Assistant in 2017 for arc magazine at [d]arc media. Sarah quickly rose up the ranks to become Editor for darc magazine (arc’s sister publication) within four years. She is now responsible for content sourcing and creation within the magazine and across its digital platforms. Sarah also plays an active role in [d]arc media’s events – the [d]arc awards, [d]arc room and [d]arc sessions.

Edited by Sarah Cullen, darc magazine is the only international design magazine focused on decorative lighting in architecture and interior design. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, darc continues to focus on high-end commercial and residential projects and works with those at the forefront of creative lighting design, interior design and product design to produce insightful editorial. Apart from the beautifully presented magazine, darc has a strong online presence through its dedicated website, regular newsletters and social media. The team also organises a number of dedicated lighting events, including its annual [d]arc awards.

The Panel

Thiago Gaya Brazil / L+D Magazine

Thiago Gaya is the Publisher of L+D Magazine, a printed and online publication dedicated to architectural lighting design. He’s also the founder and curator of the LEDforum, an annual international lighting conference, held in São Paulo, Brazil. Gaya is co-author of several books including the Lighting Design Brasil, 2002 and the Lighting Design Europe, 2004.

He has been working for more than twenty years in the production of content and in the promotion of the Lighting Design in South America as a way to connect professionals and companies and strengthen the sense of community in the lighting industry.

L+D Magazine is a Brazilian Architectural Lighting Design dedicated publication, part of the Editora Lumière publishing house. The magazine is a semiannual publication that presents several aspects of professional and academic light and lighting design projects from Brazil and worldwide. Since its inception in 2005, the magazine has been profoundly changing lighting concepts in Brazil, with a new look at projects that harmoniously combine technique and aesthetics. Its mission is not only to offer Brazilian architects and lighting designers what is new and best in the worldwide lighting scenario, but also to disseminate the work of these professionals nationally and internationally.

The Panel

VALERY GORELOVA Russia / WAVELENGTH

In 2017, Valery graduated as a lighting designer from Moscow Architecture School and from 2017, she worked at the YARKO-YARKO lighting design studio. From 2020 Valery became freelancer and also  with her colleague Vlad Oblasov, founded the online magazin; [DLINA VOLNY]. (Wavelength). In 2021, in partnership with Maria Kalmykova and Lyudmila Kadeykina, Valery founded the lighting design bureau; THE VIEW. Being a supporter of the Women in Lighting community, Valery takes part in public talks, events, lectures and leads mastermind groups for women who would like to raise their professional skills.

[WAVELENGTH] is an online magazine about light and its influence on the world around us. Its main purpose is to explore lighting, it's layers and details of any existing architectural and natural form. The magazine is the only Russian-language media that promotes lighting design, utility, effectiveness, economic and aesthetic benefits. The magazine aims to increase the interest among architects, developers and interior designers, support the local industry and grow the community of professionals.

The Panel

VERTICA DVIVEDI India / SURFACES REPORTER

Vertica is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, community builder for women in design & architecture, record holder for water initiative and the publisher of Surfaces Reporter magazine. Her work has been awarded by several organisations including ASSOCHAM, Delhi Management Association, BMW Duestshe Motoron, COWE, and more. She was awarded ASIA BOOK OF RECORD medal for mobilising women power and creation of World's Largest W shape on ground. Vertica is also the founder of WADE ASIA (World’s Leading Platform for Women in Design), the chairperson of the WADE FOUNDATION and co-chairperson of the Women Entrepreneurs Committee, PHD Chamber.

An Interior Design & Architecture Magazine that connect minds with materials & products; Surfaces Reporter is one of India’s leading media in Print & Digital Telecast for News on Interiors & Architecture Projects, Products, Building Materials and the Business of Design. Since 2011, it is a referral for designers & architects to know about inspiring projects and source the best products.

WIL Awards 2022

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

We could never have foreseen the devastating impact that Covid would have on all our lives and when we decided to honour all the WIL and WIL supporters who had achieved amazing things during 2020 and the start of 2021, we never imagined that we would still be in a similar global situation in 2022. So, whilst we still applaud everyone in this community who have never stopped dealing with issues caused by the pandemic with regard to our mental health, our work and our private lives and have helped us to remain connected, we have decided to point the WIL Awards in a different direction this year and honour some women in lighting outside the sphere of lighting design.

“Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.”
Unknown (but used publicly recently by Michelle Obama and often attributed to her)

The WIL Awards are like no other. They are specifically to highlight the achievements of the WIL community and its supporters. We want to seek out and celebrate outstanding women in the following categories for 2022: Light Art, Research and Education and Engineering. We want to make these women visible and share them with the world. The project has always looked to include women working in these fields and they are the central focus of the WIL Awards 2022.

Results was announced live on 10 June 2022, 1pm UK time:

Art
This category allows us to celebrate a female artist who always or often works with light, any woman in lighting who has created a light based piece or any women that work as a curator of Light Art.
Education & Research
This category is where you can nominate a woman who is moving our knowledge forward in light and lighting or someone who is a dedicated educator in light.
Engineering
This category allows us to highlight women who work in engineering. They primarily work with light and their work is necessary for the world we live in.

Judges’ Choice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View All Nominees

“All the initiatives that help make visible and value the important role that women play at a professional level must have our recognition. For this reason, we are very fortunate to have the WIL Awards, an interesting project that highlights and gives voice to the extraordinary work that women carry out in an area as creative as lighting design.”

Esther Torello, WIL Awards Panelist

WIL Awards 2021

Terms & Conditions

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
  1. The Awards are to celebrate achievements of the Women In Lighting (WIL) community and its many supporters.
  2. Nominations will be open from 8th March until midnight (GMT) on 30th April 2022.
  3. We welcome nominations from all genders and gender identities.
  4. Members of the WIL team may not be nominated for the Awards.
  5. Members of the Jury Panel may nominate but will refrain from judging that nominee.
  6. The same person may be nominated in more than one category.
  7. The same person may be nominated in one category only once. Repeated nominations will be removed.
  8. The jury will select 6 × Favourites from all eligible entries received. A scoring system will be used to determine Favourites and the decision of the panel of jury will be final. This will include 2 x entrants from each category.
  9. The 6 × Favourites need to be available for a video interview with the WIL organisers that will be recorded and added to the WIL website.
  10. The Favourites will be announced in June - date tbc. The Favourites will also be notified by e-mail.
  11. The 6 × Favourites will receive a trophy and a WIL T-shirt in a size of their choice.
  12. Nominators must enter their details and the details of the Nominee fully on the registration form.
  13. A Nominator may upload multiple entries.
  14. Submission of entry will be taken to mean acceptance by the Nominator, of the Awards terms and conditions herein.
  15. Your entry image/s must not infringe the copyright of any third party or laws.
  16. Each entrant grants a worldwide, irrevocable, perpetual licence to WIL and/or WIL founders allowing full reproduction rights to use the image in exhibitions, videos, websites (including but not limited to those of WIL Media Partners & Supporters, Light Collective, formalighting and Archifos) or any other format or publicity relating to WIL.
  17. WIL reserves the right to vary, suspend, postpone or terminate the Awards and any prizes, or any aspect thereof, for any reasons whatsoever and without notice.
  18. WIL’s decision on any aspect of the Awards is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
  19. WIL shall not be liable for any loss, damage or expense suffered by any Nominator or the Favourite in relation to the Awards. WIL will also not be responsible or liable for any further expenses or fees incurred by the Nominator or Nominee.
  20. No responsibility can be taken for entries that are lost, delayed, corrupted, damaged, misdirected or incomplete or which cannot be delivered for any technical reason. Proof of submission will not be accepted as proof of receipt.
  21. Each Nominator agrees to the use of his/her information in any publicity material and each Nominee agrees to their name and image being made publicly available if notified in advance. If not notified in advance, WIL will contact them directly.
  22. Your information will not be shared with any other third parties outside of the WIL. The information provided will be used only for the purpose of this Competition. Please see our Privacy Policy.

“Women in Lighting is a fantastic educational platform. I have discovered an incredible amount of talented and important female figures that are featured across the WIL awards, and throughout the WIL initiative in general. It is such a great space for representation and source to educate myself on the work a lot of these women of light, and their male supporters, are producing.”

Sarah Cullen, WIL Awards Panelist

The Nominees

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Here are the nominees for the WIL Awards 2022. In our eyes, if you have been nominated, then you are already a winner but we will be picking two favourites in each category to honour further.

Nomination Form

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
Please make sure that your nominee has not been nominated already. The same person may be nominated in one category only once. Repeated nominations will be removed.
Members of the WIL team may not be nominated for the Awards.
Nominations will be open from 8th March until midnight (GMT) on 30th April 2022.
Please make sure to read the terms of nomination!
The T&Cs

WIL Global Gathering 2021

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Programme: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 / Sponsors / The Video Recordings

The WIL Global Gathering event is an online event to celebrate International Women’s Day, the 2nd anniversary of the Women In Lighting (WIL) Project and to connect our growing network and community together. The WIL Global Gathering is open to everyone in the lighting community regardless of gender. We invite you all to join us online on 8th March 2021 to be inspired and connect together. It features a selection of sessions themed as follows: Inspiration, Project, Action and Social.

The event is divided into three parts to ensure that we are able to include presentations from around the world and enable participation from different time zones. This will ensure our event is truly global. Please join us for part of the day or all day if you can.

Happy International Women’s Day to you all and a big thank you to all our sponsors and supporters who have made the event possible.

The WIL team

Programme

Introduction : Sharon Stammers & Martin Lupton - co-founders of The Women in Lighting Project will welcome you to the event and include a sum up of the last two years of the project and an announcement on a new initiative.

The Inspiration Session consists of a 30 minute talk by an inspirational speaker(s) to start each part of the event. Get ready for Dorothy Di Stefano, Jorg Seemann, Michela Bonzi and Anne Militello. The talk will be followed by a live Q&A moderated by Sharon or Martin so get your questions ready.

There are multiple Project Sessions for you to chose from. Our speakers will present an overview of their project work or spotlight a particular project. This will be followed by a short break.

The Action Session consists of a presentation about current initiatives. We will span dark skies in New Zealand, the Green Light Alliance in Europe and thoughts about the lighting profession as shared from LATAM. This will be followed by a short live Q&A moderated by Katia Kolovea.

The Session is an hour of free flowing conversation where you can virtually meet and share your background, inspirations and daily lives with new and old friends in just 3 minutes per conversation. You will be randomly matched to a selection of the other attendees and have 3 minutes to connect, chat and exchange. We really hope that you enter into the spirit of the session, connect with as many people as possible and most of all have fun!

Watch the presentations   Brochure (9mb)   Brochure (Low res 2mb)

PART 1: India, Asia, Australia etc
6—9AM GMT // Convert time

06:00 GMT
Sharon & Martin
introduction

Sharon & Martin / Light Collective
06:15 GMT
Dorothy Di Stefano
inspiration

Light based immersive experiences

Dorothy Di Stefano / Immersive digital experience specialist
07:00 GMT
Fay Greenhalgh
project

Turn the big light off

Fay Greenhalgh / Glowing Structures
Nelson Ng
project

Façade and Bespoke Lighting

Nelson Ng / Isometrix
Sakina Dugawalla-Moeller
project

Making Light Work

Sakina Dugawalla-Moeller / Light.Func
07:20 GMT

Break
07:30 GMT
Kyra Xavia
action

New Zealand's Aim to Be A Dark Sky Nation

Kyra Xavia / Dark sky researcher
08:00 GMT

09:00 GMT

End of Part 1

Watch the presentations

PART 2: Europe, ME, Africa etc
12—3PM GMT // Convert time

12:00 GMT
Sharon & Martin
introduction

Sharon & Martin / Light Collective
12:15 GMT
Jorg Seemann & Michela Bonzi
inspiration

Purpose Pandemic Pong Punk Pink

Jorg Seemann & Michela Bonzi / Lucespazio
13:00 GMT
Massimiliano Baldieri
project

Live Light

Massimiliano Baldieri / Baldieri Lighting Design
Cherine Saroufim
project

Light for Education: in Lock down and post lock down era

Cherine Saroufim / Idepconsult
Martina Alagna
project

Lighting & Colours for an ever-changing workspace experience

Martina Alagna / Nulty
13:20 GMT

Break
13:30 GMT
Emilio Hernandez and Anna Sandgren
action

Lighting Design for the Circular Economy

Emilio Hernandez and Anna Sandgren / Green Light Alliance
14:00 GMT

15:00 GMT

End of Part 2

Watch the presentations

PART 3: USA & LATAM
4—7PM GMT // Convert time

16:00 GMT
Sharon & Martin
introduction

Sharon & Martin / Light Collective
16:15 GMT
Anne Militello
inspiration

Are you ready to expose yourself?

Anne Militello / Vortex Lighting
17:00 GMT
Alejandra Hernandez
project

Light and Essence

Alejandra Hernandez / AH Consulting
Peter Augusta
project

Casambi Workshop

Peter Augusta / Casambi
Lauren Dandridge Gaines
project

Engaging Our Communities as Citizen Lighting Designers

Lauren Dandridge Gaines / Performance Lighting Systems

Lauren is an all-around lighting enthusiast who is Lighting Certified, a current member of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES), an allied professional in the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), and board member of the Los Angeles Forum for Architecture and Design. She is a specification agent for Performance Lighting Systems and an adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Architecture at USC. She regularly provides lighting design lectures and informational sessions at local design firms. She is firm believer in honoring the integrity of design and working with all parties to achieve buildable and beautiful solutions. At USC, she guides mildly interested students into genuine curiosity about lighting and its abilities. Her studio focuses on basic lighting design techniques as well as exposure to research and theory behind current trends. Students design multiple projects, present every week, build models and run their own lighting calculation studies.

17:20 GMT

Break
17:30 GMT
Monica Luz Lobo / LD Studio Pascal Chautard / Limari Lighting Design
action

Lighting Design under an awareness of a new collective and collaborative world

Monica Luz Lobo / LD Studio
Pascal Chautard / Limari Lighting Design
18:00 GMT

19:00 GMT

End of Gathering

Watch the presentations

Sponsors

WIL Global Gathering 2021
WIL Global Gathering 2021
WIL Global Gathering 2021
WIL Global Gathering 2021
WIL Global Gathering 2021

Male Support

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Definition:

A Male Ally is someone who uses his power, position or inherent privilege to promote gender fairness and equity in the lighting community through active and public support and advocacy.

We acknowledge that this is not a role that is necessarily simple and straightforward. Many men will not instantly know how to be an ally and we understand it takes time to figure out gender equity but hopefully this starts you on your journey.

If you want more understanding before you make the commitments below we would recommend the book Good Guys and online the Catalyst website (particularly the MARC – Men Advocating Real Change section), the website LeanIn.Org and these two presentations from The Women’s Foundation in Hong Kong - Engaging Men as Gender Equity Allies and Effective Gender Bias Strategies.

The skills gained in allyship to marginalised women are also applicable to other marginalised groups in the lighting community and we hope you will deliberately apply ally strategies with these groups whenever possible.

AN ALLY WILL:

  • Make sure women’s ideas and voices are heard within the lighting community by advocating for the inclusion of women in all scenarios - at meetings, in speaking opportunities, in review panels and to “call out” gender inequities and biases in public and in private.
  • Promote the accomplishments and achievements of women in the lighting community through mentorship, sponsorship and advocacy for women within the lighting community.
  • Actively participate in gender, inclusivity and diversity related initiatives and events.
  • Improve and maintain knowledge of gender issues through research, reading and conversations with female colleagues and friends.
  • Promote allyship to male colleagues and help create a supportive environment where men can figure out how to understand, participate and grow as an ally.

The Nominees

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Here are the nominees who rose above the challenges of 2020 and did something unique. If you are nominated, you have made a difference in someone’s life and we celebrate you :-)

Nomination is now closed. The Favourites will be announced on 10th June.

WIL Awards 2021

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The results are in! Check out The Favourites here.

2020 was a year like no other. We had to deal with issues that had never come our way before. We worked from home, we home schooled, we were unable to see our friends and our family. We were unable to travel or take holidays. We dealt with illness and the pandemic from our homes. We tried to keep our jobs and our loved ones afloat and also ensure that our mental health didn’t suffer. Some of us are still dealing with the same things in 2021.

But still we rose…

The WIL Awards are like no other. They are specifically to highlight the achievements of the WIL community and its supporters. We want to seek out and celebrate the things you achieved in 2020. They may be large or small but we still want to know and share them with the world. We want you to nominate people that you think did something special in 2020 under the categories of Achievement, Initiatives and Supporters.

Maybe it’s someone who supports you, someone who inspires you, someone new to lighting, someone who had a great idea or started an initiative. Nominees and nominators can be from any gender or gender identity - as long as it fits the ideology of the WIL project. Let’s get these special people some recognition and together, acknowledge their achievements.

Some of our ambassadors have agreed to create a panel to pick out some high achievers, top supporters and favourite initiatives that we can honour in more detail. Tell us who rose above the challenges of 2020 and did something unique. Submit your nomination here. Remember, although we will choose some nominations to honour further, everyone nominated is a winner. If you are nominated you have made a difference in someones life and we celebrate you :-)

Achieve­ment
This is the category where you can nominate someone who you think has achieved something amazing in 2020. This can be a big achievement: Have they started their own company? Have they won an award for their work or contribution? Have they achieved excellence in the field of lighting? Have they reached the highest level in their career so far? Have they spread the word of lighting to new places? Or it can be small - have they achieved something seemingly less important but still significant in their lighting journey? Nominate someone to let them know that you choose to celebrate their achievements.
Initiative
This category allows us to highlight new ideas and initiatives that sit alongside the lighting industry. This is where you can celebrate ideas that push the profession forward or use light to help in the wider community. Nominate a project or an idea that you feel is beneficial to our community as a whole and fits the WIL ideology.
Supporter
This is where it gets personal. This category is to enable you to give a shout out to those who have helped you in your lives. The person who shares your load to enable you to keep moving forward. Nominate a person that has supported you, their colleagues and friends or someone who gave you a seat at the table, mentored you or someone who really supports the 50/50 ideal in the workplace.

The Favourites

View All Nominees The Terms

Interview

Barbara Horton is interviewed by Francesca Bastianini, the ambassador for WIL in the USA. Barbara discusses her career in lighting design and outlook on the lighting industry in an informal conversation with Francesca.

The Panel

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The jury will select 6 × Favourites from all eligible entries received. A scoring system will be used to determine Favourites and the decision of the panel of jury will be final. This will include 2 × Achievers, 2 × Supporters and 2 × Initiatives.

The 6 × Favourites need to be available for a video interview with the WIL organisers that will be recorded and added to the WIL website.

The Judges

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
Giacomo Rossi

GIACOMO ROSSI

LDT Lighting Design Team / Italy

After graduating in Architecture in 1999 from Politecnico in Milan, Giacomo joined the lighting design studio Ferrara Palladino and worked as a Project Manager on a wide range of projects. He founded Luxemozione.com, the first Italian blog about lighting design topics in 2007. In 2013, together with other colleagues, he established the forum Italian Lighting Design Promotion Group on Facebook, for raising awareness about lighting design topics. Giacomo has been a Council Member of APIL – Associazione dei Professionisti dell’Illuminazione (Italian Association of Lighting Professionals) since 2014 and also teaches lighting design at Politecnico in Milan. In 2016 he co-founded LDT Lighting Design Team, a multidisciplinary studio for Lighting Design.

Giacomo is a Male Supporter of WIL.

Bistrot Lavazza la Centrale part of the new Lavazza HQ project 2018. Photo courtesy Andrea NastasiFURLA façade scenogrphic lighting in Beijing 2017. Photo courtesy Cristofori Santi ArchitettiDr Vranjes Firenze flag ship store in Kuwait City 2019. Photo courtesy Cristofori Santi Architetti

 

 

Giacomo Rossi

 

 

LIZ WEST

liz-west.com / UK

Liz West is a British artist who graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2007. Her broad body of work encompasses site-specific installations, sculpture, and wall-based artwork. Liz creates vivid environments that mix luminous colour and radiant light. She aims to provoke a heightened sensory awareness in the viewer through her works and is interested in exploring how sensory phenomena can invoke psychological and physical responses that tap into our own deeply entrenched relationships to colour. Her investigation into the relationship between colour and light is often realised through an engagement between materiality and a given site. Liz has been commissioned worldwide by institutions and organisations and has permanent works sited in London, Manchester and Bury. Her work has also been widely published.

Watch Interview

Colour TransferOur ColourOur Colour Reflection

 

 

Giacomo Rossi

YISHAN ZHUANG

@atalantakatze / US

Yishan Zhuang started her career as a lighting designer in Beijing. She came to New York to earn her Master’s degree in Lighting Design from Parsons the New School for Design. For her, to work with light is as fascinating as working with other art materials such as watercolors. Lighting is always full of potential and requires a strong combination of hard work and experience to examine ideas and bring them to fruition.

Watch Interview

Summer PalaceBrooklyn BridgeSunsetStreet

Terms & Conditions

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
  1. The Awards are to celebrate achievements of the Women In Lighting (WIL) community and its many supporters.
  2. Nominations will be open from 8th March until midnight (GMT) on 30th April 2021.
  3. Nominees and nominators can be from any gender or gender identity – as long as it fits the ideology of the WIL project.
  4. Members of the WIL team and WIL ambassadors may not be nominated for the Awards.
  5. Members of the Jury Panel may not nominate in the category they are judging.
  6. The same person may be nominated in more than one category.
  7. The same person may be nominated in one category only once. Repeated nominations will be removed.
  8. The jury will select 6 × Favourites from all eligible entries received. A scoring system will be used to determine Favourites and the decision of the panel of jury will be final. This will include 2 × Achievers, 2 × Supporters and 2 × Initiatives.
  9. The 6 × Favourites need to be available for a video interview with the WIL organisers that will be recorded and added to the WIL website.
  10. The Favourites will be announced on 10th June . The Favourites will also be notified by e-mail.
  11. The 6 × Favourites will receive a trophy and a WIL T-shirt in a size of their choice.
  12. Nominators must enter their details and the details of the Nominee fully on the registration form.
  13. A Nominator may upload multiple entries.
  14. Submission of entry will be taken to mean acceptance by the Nominator, of the Awards terms and conditions herein.
  15. Your entry image/s must not infringe the copyright of any third party or laws.
  16. Each entrant grants a worldwide, irrevocable, perpetual licence to WIL and/or WIL founders allowing full reproduction rights to use the image in exhibitions, videos, websites (including but not limited to those of WIL Media Partners & Supporters, Light Collective, formalighting and Archifos) or any other format or publicity relating to WIL.
  17. WIL reserves the right to vary, suspend, postpone or terminate the Awards and any prizes, or any aspect thereof, for any reasons whatsoever and without notice.
  18. WIL’s decision on any aspect of the Awards is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
  19. WIL shall not be liable for any loss, damage or expense suffered by any Nominator or the Favourite in relation to the Awards. WIL will also not be responsible or liable for any further expenses or fees incurred by the Nominator or Nominee.
  20. No responsibility can be taken for entries that are lost, delayed, corrupted, damaged, misdirected or incomplete or which cannot be delivered for any technical reason. Proof of submission will not be accepted as proof of receipt.
  21. Each Nominator agrees to the use of his/her information in any publicity material and each Nominee agrees to their name and image being made publicly available if notified in advance. If not notified in advance, WIL will contact them directly.
  22. Your information will not be shared with any other third parties outside of the WIL. The information provided will be used only for the purpose of this Competition. Please see our Privacy Policy.

T-shirt Design Competition

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The T-shirt was originally designed to be a basic undergarment. But over the years, the world’s most ubiquitous fashion item has become a powerful political weapon. T-shirts are a great barometer of social change. They can shock, outrage, unite and challenge the status quo. They can also help to disseminate progressive messages around the world.

With a T-shirt as your canvas, WIL invited you to express your creativity to create a special WIL T-shirt that shared the values of our community. Using the themes of hope, equality, empowerment, inspiration and light, we invited you to submit a design.

Our judges chose 5 winners and the public vote picked one more. The profits generated by the sale of the winning t-shirt designs were donated to Light Reach - a solar lighting initiative created by lighting think-tank Phoscope.

The T-shirt shop is now closed.

WIL T-shirt designs

WIL in Lockdown

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

These mini interviews were a snapshot in time: APRIL - JUNE 2020. They tried to capture a small part of the Covid experience from WIL supporters all over the world. We know that the Covid Crisis is not over but many countries have emerged from lockdown and are entering a new period so we are closing submissions. It was uplifting and inspiring to hear your voices from all over the world and good to know that we were and still are, all in it together. Thank you for sharing.

You can still listen to the uplifting and eclectic playlist generated by the participants.

Music Playlist

Ivica Jekić

https://www.instagram.com/jekicchan/?hl=hr

Ivica Jekić

12 June 2020

Croatia

Ricochet - Faith No More

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Family
Friends
Zoom
Food
Lighting
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
The Plot Against America
"This Is Marketing" Seth Godin
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that things will slow down and we will be able to appreciate how rich our lives are. In family, work and friends we have such treasures that have been taken for granted because of the race to be better and quicker. New perspectives have been open now and hopefully we can all adjust to follow those.

“We’re all under the same sky and walk the same earth; we’re alive together during the same moment.”

Maxine Hong Kingston, ‘The Woman Warrior’

MAGALI MENDEZ

LinkedIn

MAGALI MENDEZ

10 June 2020

MEXICO

Ça va Ça Vient

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Unorthodox
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
FEAR, FAITH, HOPE, MEDITATION, RE-INVENTION,
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
This, ( as everything else) will pass over, stay strong, be conscious, take care of yourself and your family, have faith and hope, EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE!

Sarah Cullen

Insta - @sez_cullen

Sarah Cullen

9 June 2020

Manchester, UK

Madame Ghandi - Bad Habits

What do you miss the most?
Family, friends and freedom.
It's my mum's birthday today and a zoom call just doesn't quite cut it - I want to head home and give her a big squeeze and eat lots of cake together!
What are you most thankful for?
A safe roof over my head, companionship with my boyfriend and cat, face timing with my family and being comfortable in my own space - I've always enjoyed reading or binging something on netflix alone, so I'm grateful for my introvert-side blossoming during lockdown.
What’s for lunch?
Left over pizza from dinner last night! 2 slices of sundried tomato margarita and 1 slice of salami, nduja and pearl peppers. With money being slightly tighter these last few months, we aren't getting takeaway delivered, so have found a whole new joy in buying the 'posh' pizzas from the supermarket as a treat to have on a Monday night while doing a virtual pub quiz with our friends. Monday nights are the new Friday nights!

Danielle Mastro

@lightslightslights_au

Danielle Mastro

9 June 2020

Melbourne, Australia

Wiyathul by Geoffery Gurrumul Yunupingu

What are you most thankful for?
The humanness we have mustered despite the adversity and the isolation.
What are your hopes for the future?
For the pace of life to be aligned to the needs of humanness and not to the needs of financial gain.
How are you feeling today?
Grateful to be knee deep in a pile of lighting designs, exploring my creative mind whilst listening to a little Pavarotti. I am warm and sheltered by the wintery cold and my pace is mine to choose.

Natvalun Tavepontakul

instagram.com/natvalun.t

Natvalun Tavepontakul

9 June 2020

Stockholm, Sweden

Times like these

What do you miss the most?
My family. It has been almost a year that I have stayed aboard in such a long period. I want to return to my home soon. A sea near my current place makes me miss my hometown. My family, I miss you.
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
I would like to challenge myself to work on light and art and I look forward to working with communities in creating good public spaces.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Confuse, relax, homemade, exercise, strong

Francesca Bastianini

@sightestudio

Francesca Bastianini

9 June 2020

United States

This is America - Childish Gambino

How are you feeling today?
Sad, angry, and hopeful. I kept pushing off submitting my lockdown story submission because I wasn't sure what to add, and the view out my window is okay but not terribly inspiring. However, the events of the last few weeks have dramatically shifted my experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. After the most recent instances of police murdering Black women and men, including members of the trans community, protests have occurred daily in all 50 states of the United States in solidarity with Black Lives Matter.
This shift in behavior from being at home to being out on the streets is cause for some cognitive dissonance. We were staying at home and following social distancing rules in order to take care of ourselves but also to care for others. Now, it is clear that while the virus is still very much a threat, there is an imperative to be present for those who have suffered systemic racism and police brutality. For those who can, we now leave our houses to be on the street with others in order to care for others, and to use privilege as a tool to for change.
What are you most thankful for?
I am grateful for my health, and that of my friends, family, and neighbors. I am grateful for the tools of communication that have made it possible to continue to teach through the end of the semester, work with clients, and connect with friends around the world. Grateful that I have been able to reconnect to a practice of meditation, focusing on breath and breathing. Grateful I can breathe.
What are your hopes for the future?
That we don't pick up where we left off. This time has upended all of our day-to-day routines, and can be a time to question what we want to return to, and what we want to change. How do we support working parents and caregivers? How do we learn to be supportive of our communities through education and equitable design practices?

Gabriela Tapia Lara

@gaby_tlara

Gabriela Tapia Lara

6 June 2020

Bolivie

Sois Namorados by Luisa Sobral.

What’s for lunch?
Queso Humacha, an Bolivian traditional food. It’s a spice cheese cream, accompanied by potato’s and corn.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Family. Love. Friendship. Art. Loneliness.
What have you learnt from this experience?
We don’t have to be afraid of express our good feelings... If you love someone, tell it! If you miss someone, tell it! If you need someone, tell it! If some one it’s important for you, TELL IT! The present is a gift...

Joy Wong

Joy Wong

5 June 2020

Hong Kong

Nursery rhymes...

What do you miss the most?
Family, friends, people I used to meet - the face to face contacts.
What have you learnt from this experience?
No lockdown in our city actually... most business as usual. But on this globalised planet, who won’t be affected? We are such CONNECTED!
What are your hopes for the future?
Love and freedom.

April Dorrian

April Dorrian

4 June 2020

South Coast

The Joubert Singers - Stand On The Word (1982)

What’s for lunch?
crabmeat with coriander, chilli and lime on sourdough crackers.
What have you learnt from this experience?
Be kind to yourself. Slow down. Savour that cup of tea, that glass of wine, that sunset, that night sky, to help from feeling overwhelmed.
How are you feeling today?
Hopeful.

Dane Amilawangi

instagram.com/daneamila

Dane Amilawangi

4 June 2020

Jakarta, Indonesia

Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac

What do you miss the most?
walking around the city, hanging out with my friends, doing something productive in a cafe or library, and road trip!
What are you most thankful for?
my loved ones health, my cat
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
just started to watch When They See Us

Carmela Dagnello

https://www.instagram.com/cd_lighting_designer/

Carmela Dagnello

4 June 2020

London, United Kingdom

Mika, Take It Easy

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Mindfulness
Nature
Change of direction
Cook
Experiment
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope we could all go back soon to smile and hug each other again.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
The Good Place on Netflix. If you think bad people can't go to heaven, that's for you! :D

Leslie Epsztein

www.leslie-epsztein.com

Leslie Epsztein

4 June 2020

Paris - France

Rapper's Delight - the Sugarhill Gang

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
'Normal People' on BBC & 'Hilary' documentary by Nanette Burstein
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Have a routine
Call friends / family often
Play games (even on skype)
Go out to find the horizon
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Movies Visio Scones Stretching Open calls

Linda-Cristal Young

Young11001001

Linda-Cristal Young

3 June 2020

New Haven, Connecticut, US

So Calm, Relaxed by Bella’s Bartock

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Read: Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo,
Netflix: The Big Flower Fight
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Exhausting, knitting, cuddles with family, binge watching, one day at a time
What are you doing to help feel connected?
To help feel connected I’m calling my family more often, hosting a Zoom knit night for friends every week, volunteering at a local food pantry, and help maintain the local community garden with my daughter.

Lisa J. Reed

ENvisionLD

Lisa J. Reed

3 June 2020

United States

My United States of Whatever

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Anne With an E (Please create another season, Netflix!)
What are you most thankful for?
Extra time with my husband and our 17 and 19-year-old sons while we are all staying at home!
What do you miss the most?
I desperately want to visit my 75 and 76 year-old parents. I miss them so much!

Karen Owens

Karen Owens

3 June 2020

England

The Diva Dance Performed by Evgenia Laguna. Composed and Produced by Éric Serra

What are you most thankful for?

Nature and the stability of the English countryside. It is never silent. The sounds of wildlife and of the farmers ploughing, sowing and tending to their land are stable and constant features of life here.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony &
What Nature Does For Britain by Tony Juniper
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
I’ve always been a positive person but in these overwhelming times I know it’s ok not to portray positivity every day. It can be exhausting. We are humans and full of many types of emotions. We can allow ourselves to feel sad and quiet some days because the fact that we know positivity means we know that better days are always ahead.

Zubair Ahmed

zubairahmed74 - Instagram

Zubair Ahmed

2 June 2020

Bangalore, India .

Imagine - John Lennon

How are you feeling today?
Feeling blessed to be with family I know not many are able to do that at this point in time .
What have you learnt from this experience?
Women are working more harder these days , Men are understanding their value more , This crisis has thought us that Women are the actual breadwinners of the family . It's not easy to actually do all that a woman does .
"Ultimately, the greatest lesson that COVID-19 can teach humanity is that we are all in this together."
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
WIL you guys are doing a amazing job

Himasini Subramani

himasini_subramani

Himasini Subramani

2 June 2020

London , United Kingdom

Where I stand (Midnight Sun)

What are you most thankful for?
I'm thankful for this Isolation. I believe what Charles Bukowski said "Isolation is a gift". Because it had made me think more than usual, optimistic and pessimistic but for sure this period has raised a great level of self awarness in me.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope for miracles in the future. Miracles happens to those who believe in it.
What have you learnt from this experience?
Lockdown stands only between your body and the physical world ,the real you can always wander around anywhere and learn anything you want.

Kseniya Kosaya

https://www.instagram.com/fcosx/

Kseniya Kosaya

2 June 2020

Moscow, Russia

A Tribe Called Quest - Can I Kick It

What have you learnt from this experience?
I need to slow down sometimes. Gonna practice mental distance keeping after lockdown ending.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
The Last Dance Netflix series suprised me well. It is about basketball legend Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls team he played for. Never thought I will be so interested in basketball. Great oldschool hip-hop sountracks. Check one I mentioned like my lockdown song.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Just relax, it's new experience for all of us. In this huge amount of information try to figure out, what you really need and don't be upset missing something.

Ruxandra

ruxandra.dascalu

Ruxandra

2 June 2020

London

Power over me, Dermot Kennedy

What do you miss the most?
Travelling to visit family & friends
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Best read: Invisible Women
Netflix Binge: Hollywood
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Baking Jogging Family video calls Zoom parties with friends Watercolour painting

Arianna

Arianna

1 June 2020

London

Xavier Rudd - Follow The Sun

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Yoga
Picnic
Homemade bread
Supermarket queue
Birthday Zoom Party
What have you learnt from this experience?
That is ok to slow down
What do you miss the most?
Travel around the world

Marika Volkova

https://www.instagram.com/qpro.lighting/

Marika Volkova

1 June 2020

Russia, Moscow

Living in the moment - Jason Mraz

What do you miss the most?
Simple walks in parks and city streets without purpose at any time I wish it.
What are you most thankful for?
I’m thankful for possibility to be safe and work at home. Also, it’s very important to stay in communications with friends and colleagues. And it’s great to know that your dear people and family are feeling good.
What have you learnt from this experience?
This situation proved how closely connected all people around the world and how we are all vulnerable.

Pila

lightwalk_bkk

Pila

1 June 2020

Bangkok, Thailand

National anthem

What are you most thankful for?
Today and Everything
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Stay connect and keep smiling
What have you learnt from this experience?
Only Here and Now exist

Antonia Peón-Veiga

Instagram

Antonia Peón-Veiga

1 June 2020

Santiago, Chile

Un tallarín,

What do you miss the most?
I miss being alone. I gave birth my second boy at the very beggining of the lock down and I miss being away from the kids. O also miss being able to hug and touch people I love. I miss working at the office without the family around.
How are you feeling today?
I feel greatful. There is a beautiful autumn day and I am at the garden taking some sun. I feel thankful of having this outdoor space at home.
What’s for lunch?
Lasaña

Shalneva Natalya

Instagram: shalneva_art_light

Shalneva Natalya

30 May 2020

Sochi

Shanti People - Yam Yam Yam

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
confusion
powerlessness
self-development
online study
communication
What do you miss the most?
Sunset/Touchdown
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Commercial buildings

Mercè Rafecas

@mercerafecas

Mercè Rafecas

25 May 2020

Sitges - Barcelona - Catalunya

https://orcd.co/ferranpalauunivers

Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
The project of a 4 star hotel, in the Hospitalet near Barcelona, in which we carry out the lighting and interior design
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Killing Commendatore
Haruki Murakami
What have you learnt from this experience?
I can live with less, I have realized that there are few important things. Health, something that connects you to your friends and family, a space to be outdoors, good food, and a little of work to go ahead.

Tripti Sahni

https://www.instagram.com/studio_trace_nyc/

Tripti Sahni

25 May 2020

Mumbai, India

Hakuna Matata

How are you feeling today?
Hopeful.
The sun is out and I was woken up by the neighbourhood dogs barking.
What are you doing to help feel connected?
I have a 7pm call with my friends and family everyday. It helps ensure I log off from work at a sane hour, keep to a routine and stay connected to the ones I love.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Taking it one day at a time helps.

Yah Li Toh

instagram @tohyahli

Yah Li Toh

25 May 2020

Singapore

Home for a while by S.Lyre, Delayde

What have you learnt from this experience?
Learning from and respecting nature is very important. This crisis also shows the extremes of human nature and reaction towards adversaries. Be kind of oneself and others.
What are you most thankful for?
I am thankful that I can still enjoy the days, even communicating with my friends and family, colleagues near and far virtually, through various means. I am thankful I can still continue to work, to contribute in different ways to the community and simply staying healthy and able to take every single breathe. friends and family are still safe and good
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that from this crisis, mankind will be more kind and shows more gratitude and respect. hopefully, we will be more sensitive to resources, to our habitats, to our mother earth.

Toshihisa K.

Facebook

Toshihisa K.

24 May 2020

Japan

We are the world

How are you feeling today?
Sunday sunshine is comfortable time.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Flower,fruits,vegetables loss.
What do you miss the most?
I didn't go to my friend funeral.

Jess Gallacher

@gallacherjess Insta

Jess Gallacher

23 May 2020

United Kingdom

Our day will come - Amy Winehouse version

How are you feeling today?
Lucky. I'm healthy and can pay the bills, so everything beyond that is a bonus.
What do you miss the most?
Family and friends. Hugs. Proper eye contact. Real life art that's not on a screen.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Schitt's Creek. Its so thoughtful and beautiful.

Jessica Juliette Kamps, Cluster Manager CICAT

jess_juliette_bcn

Jessica Juliette Kamps, Cluster Manager CICAT

22 May 2020

España

Cool, Dua Lipa

What are you most thankful for?
My friends & family, we can´t see each other has before but we still connected and sharing good moments. My city, i'm in love with Barcelona, we are lucky to live in such beautiful place.
How are you feeling today?
Happy! it's friday and it's sunny
What do you miss the most?
Freedom and carefree days

Cristina Gil Venegas

Instagram @crisgilvenegas

Cristina Gil Venegas

22 May 2020

Bogotá, Colombia

Mi libertad - Monsieur Perine

What do you miss the most?
The feeling of freedom and joy that travelling brings to me
What are you most thankful for?
I have reconnected with my passions: photography, design, drawing and all through light
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Netflix: Becoming - Michelle Obama Reading: In praise of shadows

Charlotte Croft

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-croft-4b690b47/

Charlotte Croft

21 May 2020

London, UK

Bob Marley - Everything's Gonna Be Alright

What do you miss the most?
Friends, Family and Freedom!
What have you learnt from this experience?
That London has some really beautiful areas that we take for granted.. it wasn't until we were only allowed out for 1 hour a day did we actually start to enjoy the local area and the stunning parks we have. We will not take anything for granted moving forward..
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Stay Strong and Stay Positive! We will get through this

EMILIA HERNANDEZ_ PRODUCT MANAGER L&S

linkedin.com/in/emiliahernandez

EMILIA HERNANDEZ_ PRODUCT MANAGER L&S

20 May 2020

MADRID

Taro de Alt-J

What do you miss the most?
Being able to celebrate whatever with my loved ones
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Calm
Time
Priorities
Love
Gourmet
What are you doing to help feel connected?
I'm developing a new love for technologies and social media. Being able to see family, friends and colleagues through the camera makes distances seem smaller

Michela Mezzavilla

https://www.instagram.com/remm_by_michelamezzavilla/

Michela Mezzavilla

20 May 2020

Barcelona

I am what I am - Gloria Gaynor

How are you feeling today?
Energized and optimistic.
What are you most thankful for?
Having more time to spend with my little daughter, re-discovering reality through her eyes.
What have you learnt from this experience?
Each moment we live is a gift. It's important to tell each other how much we care.

Paz Campos

Paz Campos

20 May 2020

Dubai UAE

Better Together by Jack Johnson

What do you miss the most?
I miss that I can take an aeroplane and visit my family and siblings.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Patience
Smile
Meditation
Health
Hug
What have you learnt from this experience?
Take care yourself and the people that you love. Live the day and enjoy the simple things.

Barbara Rodríguez pando lighting designar at LDC

@barbararodriguezpando instagram

Barbara Rodríguez pando lighting designar at LDC

19 May 2020

Madrid, spain

Nunca estoy c. Tangana

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Working, pilates, clapping, dinner, repeat
What are you most thankful for?
The Sky I can see from our Windows and the plants un our terrace
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Unorthodox at netflix

Marga Puigdomènech

Pinterest

Marga Puigdomènech

19 May 2020

Barcelona

DREAM / the Cranberries

What have you learnt from this experience?
We need to hear the nature
What do you miss the most?
Family and friends.
How are you feeling today?
In peace

Iris Molendijk

Iris Molendijk

18 May 2020

Stockholm, Sweden

Chateau - Angus & Julia Stone

Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Basically any project with light and people. As I am almost graduated I am really looking forward to finally start working again. I hope that COVID-19 won't stop me from finding a great office to work for.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
THESIS
Focus
Zoom meetings
Experiments
Roommates
What have you learnt from this experience?
While being locked in my room I found the time and focus to work on my thesis. Every afternoon I gave myself the time to do a workout and prepare a healthy meal. After a few weeks of watching Netflix I also found my way back to yoga and I even started meditation. This situation brought me closer to myself.

Beatrice

instagram.com/beppilu

Beatrice

18 May 2020

London, UK

Eclipse - Pink Floyd

What do you miss the most?
I miss the most sharing experiences with friends, family and strangers as going to concerts, checking the latest art expositions, dinners, ect...
What have you learnt from this experience?
I've learned to appreciate the present moment and pay more attention to details. In a world where everything is in continue transformation and fast-paced, sometimes we spend our time more focusing on what we don’t have instead of what we do have. Unfortunately, because of this, we don’t take the time to think about the little things that bring us happiness and make our lives better. Lockdown is a great opportunity to focus on these!
What are you doing to help feel connected?
I spend my free time painting, doing yoga and cooking.

Nathalie Naval

@navanathalie

Nathalie Naval

18 May 2020

Barcelona

Toda una vida - ZENET

How are you feeling today?
I am happy is a sunny Sunday today
What do you miss the most?
To be able to see and hug my family from France.
What have you learnt from this experience?
I have learned to value much more what I have, my family, my friends amd many other things.

Manel Escacena-Chica

@manelescacena

Manel Escacena-Chica

16 May 2020

Barcelona

Vitalic - Levitation

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
'The essential' written by Miguel Milá, considered the first industrial designers of our country. This book takes us back to what is needed in essence, and connects really well with the reality we're going through right now.
What are you most thankful for?
I'm most thankful for having all friends and relatives healthy and out of risk.
It's been also my birthday during this week, and I'm very happy to see how many people care about me and support me.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
To stay connected. To share not only success but also worries, we become stronger from the downs not only from the ups!

ESTHER TORELLÓ

@lightecturemagazine

ESTHER TORELLÓ

16 May 2020

@lightecturemagazine

Chandelier of Damien Rice

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
I definitely recommend the inspirational "The marvelous Mrs. Maisel" an example of a confidence woman in a ocean of men.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Webinar when waking up, webinar for breakfast, webinar for lunch, webinar at tea time, webinar for dinner. Webinar's... what else?

What have you learnt from this experience?
I have learned that contrary to what we have always been told, the world can stop. That for a few moments animals can feel free and leave their burrows without fear of humans, nature can regain its splendor and cities can wake up without pollution and without being overwhelmed by tourism. That if we propose, change and a better planet are possible.

Rachael Nicholls

@Little_Lumen

Rachael Nicholls

15 May 2020

Oxford, England

Melody of Love by Hot Chip

What are you doing to help feel connected?
I’ve been sending postcards (and brownies!) to my friends and regular video chats. Also, working chats with one of my colleagues, where we just have each other on speaker phone while we work sometimes.
What are you most thankful for?
My health, my garden, the internet (especially my local online patisserie) and my cat; she comes to see me at about 4pm each day and sits on my lap while I work.
What’s for lunch?
A fish finger sandwich followed by some Tony’s chocolate (the salted caramel flavour is my favourite!)

Puneeta Anand

Www.instagram.com/puneetaanand

Puneeta Anand

15 May 2020

Delhi, India

Three little birds by Bob Marley and wailers

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Reading Guns, germs and steel by Jared Diamond. It’s a short history of everybody for the last 13,000 years.
What do you miss the most?
Human touch. I miss my family and friends a lot, miss going to work and in person meetings. Also, a lot of hugs and happiness is all we need right now.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Introspection, meditation, growth, technology and essentials

Eleanna Kafka

www.linkedin.com/in/eleanna-kafka-0a64a9152/

Eleanna Kafka

15 May 2020

Twickenham, London, UK

Pink Floyd - Shine on you crazy diamond

What do you miss the most?
Visiting my family and friends back home. Hugging my dog!
Going to concerts and museums, going out for dinner.
What are you most thankful for?
The many more beautiful moments we are sharing with my partner.
What’s for lunch?
Anything and everything! I'm being so much more creative with my cooking now.

Sophya Acosta Lighting Design Studio

https://www.instagram.com/sophya.acostaldstudio/

Sophya Acosta Lighting Design Studio

15 May 2020

Argentina

Casio by Jungle https://open.spotify.com/track/33wUd3GgaRf2rux2aJ71yb

What are you most thankful for?
Our team, being able to keep hanging out by video call is great. Technology is amazing and we are exercising our virtual hugs.
What do you miss the most?
Going to the theatre. We are theatre animals and the darkness before the show is our natural environment.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Keep thinking about light and playing with it at home!

Agata Tyburska

@agatatyburska

Agata Tyburska

15 May 2020

London, United Kingdom

Billie Joe Armstrong, Green Day - I Think We're Alone Now

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Books: The Witcher Saga
Netflix: Sherlock
What are you doing to help feel connected?
Weekly scheduled video call quizzes with friends. A drink also doesn't hurt!
What have you learnt from this experience?
Be kind, we are all affected by the current situation in different ways and we need to be there for one another.

Marci Song

https://www.instagram.com/seamdesign/

Marci Song

14 May 2020

London, UK

Pop Life - Prince

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Tales from the Loop, Westworld Season 3 - both have great music, scenes and narrative feature good lighting
What do you miss the most?
wandering and photographing normal life outside of these four walls and sharing them and experiences with people
What have you learnt from this experience?
How much more I need to learn. It's easy to be introspective during these times of isolation. Even under the challenges and constraints of the lockdown, I never found myself bored - there was always something to learn and something to improve.

Giusy Gallina

@giusy.gallina75

Giusy Gallina

14 May 2020

Turin, Italy

Un giorno di ordinaria magia, Negrita

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Shantaram, Gregory David Roberts
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
patience
think
fragility
courage
solidarity
What do you miss the most?
Go sailing

Paola Urbano

@urbanolighting

Paola Urbano

14 May 2020

Turin, Italy

Ludovico Einaudi – Experience

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
- silence: I've enjoyed the silence, although at first it was disturbing.
- solidarity: between people.
- time: a new perception of time, a suspended time.
- adaptation : to new rules.
- spring : I've contemplated carefully the power of nature, day after day.
How are you feeling today?
I feel good and I’m confident.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope the pandemic will end soon. I hope for an increased feeling of responsibility from all us.

Alla Filippovich

https://www.facebook.com/alla.filipovich.5

Alla Filippovich

14 May 2020

Jordan

Zhuravli

What are you doing to help feel connected?
Webinars! Seems I might have missed only a few. And if a second wave is to occur ( I hope it won't ), I’ll look through all the webinars in the recording.
What’s for lunch?
Whatever could be delivered to home. All food outlets had been closed for two months and starting to provide delivery just a few days ago so we ate in only. Daily home fine cuisine, especially during Ramadan.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Let's meet at in Zoom.

Katherine Ayala

@okoiluminacion

Katherine Ayala

14 May 2020

Perú

Natalia Jiménez - Creo en Mi

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Bhagavad Gita
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Contemplación.
Resiliencia.
Crear.
Cuidar.
Rediseño.

What do you miss the most?
El Box de Crossfit.

Kaori Hiroki

@hirokikaori

Kaori Hiroki

14 May 2020

Tokyo, Japan

I Wish I Could Go Traveling Again - Stacey Kent

What have you learnt from this experience?
Connect with people, and think about what I can do for them.
Nobody knows the future, but I believe these essential things will never change in any situation.
What do you miss the most?
I miss the city light and people. I realized these are the fuel of my motivation.
What are your hopes for the future?
Many people are staying at home now, so I hope this experience would become a good opportunity to think about your home lighting. Both artificial and natural light affects us mentally and physically. Being conscious of light will improve your quality of life!

Kael Gillam

@kael.anne

Kael Gillam

13 May 2020

Croydon, UK

Nine Inch Nails - Every Day Is Exactly The Same

What do you miss the most?
Seeing my famiy, being able to hug my friends, and drinking a proper pint.
What have you learnt from this experience?
Our ideals of productivity are changing in a positive, healthy way, and that personal and community wellness is now at the forefront of people's minds. It's not just a throw-away term, it's getting ingrained and helping us all to cope in our own individual ways.
What are you most thankful for?
Not having to commute 2+ hours to work every day! Much more time to cook lavish meals and relax.

Alessandra Bertolini

alinabert.it

Alessandra Bertolini

13 May 2020

Barcelona, Spain

A vida é bella - Banda Kakana https://youtu.be/0D94W9g07gg

What are you most thankful for?
My balcony, the morning sun, my shelter.
What do you miss the most?
My family, Rome, the sea.
What have you learnt from this experience?
I can spend time with myself.

SELEN CELIK GUNGOR

https://www.linkedin.com/in/selen-çelik-güngör-1667984a

SELEN CELIK GUNGOR

13 May 2020

Helsinki - Finland

Gigi Masin - Swallow’s Tempest

What’s for lunch?
Salmon Poke Bowl
What do you miss the most?
Dinner out with my friends and spouse, visiting museums and galleries, walking more than 180 steps a day
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Hans Ulrich Obrist - Lives of the Artists, Lives of the Architects

Daniella Wong

https://www.instagram.com/daniellawstudio/

Daniella Wong

13 May 2020

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Norah Jones - Peace

What are you most thankful for?
My grandparents health
What do you miss the most?
Being able to enjoy the little things in my daily life
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Stay connected, and always try to show beauty in your everyday!

Daniella Wong

@daniellawstudio @daniellawm

Daniella Wong

13 May 2020

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Norah Jones - Peace

What do you miss the most?
Being able to enjoy the simple things, and value liberty as it was
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Keep showing how beautiful life is, and how lucky are a
What are you most thankful for?
My grandparents health

Sabrina Mandel

https://www.instagram.com/sabrina.mandel.ld/

Sabrina Mandel

13 May 2020

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Viva la vida, Cold Play

What’s for lunch?
Salad
What do you miss the most?
Freedom.
What are you most thankful for?
196/5000 I am grateful for the health of myself and my family and for the profession I have. I love light and it does me good to work than I like in these times when at home we have less options.

Elena Vasileva

https://www.instagram.com/vslvtor/

Elena Vasileva

13 May 2020

Moscow

Auf leichtem Fuß · Haindling

What’s for lunch?
Breakfast
What do you miss the most?
Alpine South Tyrol
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Landscape lighting

MACARENA RISSO - Architect-Lighting Designer-Teacher-Researcher

Macarena Risso

MACARENA RISSO - Architect-Lighting Designer-Teacher-Researcher

13 May 2020

Montevideo - Uruguay

Everybody wants to rule the world - Tears for fears

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
El Elogio de la Sombra de Junichiro Tanazaki , y La Agonía y el E´xtasis de Irving Stone
What do you miss the most?
Weekend lunches with the family, going out with friends, just going out for a walk.
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Urban lighting and changes in ambience and percepction in relation to new led fixtures.

Sophie Hoyal

@srhlightingdesign

Sophie Hoyal

13 May 2020

Limehouse, London

Physical by Dua Lipa

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Schitts Creek
What have you learnt from this experience?
That I really like Caitlin Moran's column in The Times on Saturday.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Online fitness is dangerous stuff

Pia Salmi

Pia Salmi

13 May 2020

Espoo, Finland

This is the Life, Amy Macdonald

What are you most thankful for?
For the extra time for everyday walks in nature close to my home.
How are you feeling today?
Super Happy as my daugter just got results from her final exams and they were much better than she expected!
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
La Casa se Papel

Nitika Agrawal

instagram.com/nitika.agrawal/

Nitika Agrawal

13 May 2020

Idar-Oberstein, Germany

Maroon 5 - Memories

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
- strengthened family bonding
- improved cooking skills
- personal development by attending online university courses
- understanding the importance of free movement
- focus on health
What do you miss the most?
I miss the most getting ready and socialising with diverse people including friends and colleagues over a drink or a restaurant.
What have you learnt from this experience?
It is easy to feel impatient and frustrated with the situation. Key is to keep positive, calm and be patient. Focus on your hobbies, self-development, health and enjoy family time. In everyday life, we barely get the opportunity to focus on these due to our busy work schedule. Make the most of your time at home for self-development!

Aimee Corcoran

https://www.instagram.com/corcoran.aimee/

Aimee Corcoran

12 May 2020

Roscommon, Ireland

Lisa Hannigan - Undertow

What do you miss the most?
Being able to smile, laugh & hug my friends & family in person.
What have you learnt from this experience?
It seems everything has been stripped back to basics, in an almost nostalgic manner. I've learned to cherish the peace, the tame and the tranquility of the Irish countryside. It's magic. I don't miss the city bustle at all.
What are you most thankful for?
My health & my wealth (the family & friends I've surrounded myself with)

Beata Denton

beatadenton ( Instagram)

Beata Denton

12 May 2020

Stockholm, Sweden

“Love you ‘till the end”, The Pogues and ”Dear life”, Beck. Love and Life.

What do you miss the most?
I miss travelling and socialising, miss my daughter and friends in London - I miss London! Miss the lighting community IRL. I miss planning ahead. And I miss wearing proper shoes, (as opposed to slippers:))
What are you most thankful for?
I am grateful for not being alone and for being able to move around relatively freely in comparison. Grateful for having my job, and being able to work from home. Thankful for people that make me laugh in this nightmare.
What’s for lunch?
I eat quite little for lunch but rarely skip finishing off with a fresh date and some peanut butter! And I definitely get my take away cappuccino from the café near by.

Paulina Villalobos

@villacomic IG

Paulina Villalobos

12 May 2020

Santiago Chile

Cold Fever, Matías Aguayo

Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
I want to write
What are your hopes for the future?
The next global challenge will be climate change. So this slowdown/lockdown gives us time to think in a new way to thing our cities, where the connection with light, nature and wellbeing should be born.
What do you miss the most?
Go to the mountain

Fernanda Castillo

https://www.instagram.com/ferchucastillo/

Fernanda Castillo

12 May 2020

San Miguel de Tucuman, Tucuman, Argentina

Tocando al frente - Los Puesteros

What are you most thankful for?
de estar sanos y poder disfrutar de ver crecer a mi hijo.
What do you miss the most?
los asados con la familia, folclore Argentino de fondo , una gran mesa y mucho sol!
What have you learnt from this experience?
que valoro las pequeñas cosas que antes no tenían importancia para mi, que pude conectarme con quien quiero ser y que quiero dejar en este mundo.

Giorgia Brusemini

@ognicasailluminata

Giorgia Brusemini

12 May 2020

Italy_ Milano

Il postino - (L. Bacalov)

What are you most thankful for?
I am grateful that the people I love most are all well. I am also grateful to my little daughter because her presence helped me to remain anchored to reality in difficult moments.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
challenge, hope, patience, imagination, distance
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
We are a large network capable of welcoming and helping, stay in touch and take advantage of it to get to know other people in our community.

Elisa

www.instagram.com/design_by_hilge

Elisa

12 May 2020

Jyväskylä, Finland

Katie Melua - Wonderful life

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Calm, healty, lonely, effective and creative
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
My videoproject We see the light, together with light artists and lighting designers from different countrirs. It's great to capture and preserve these weird times trough the eyes of us who see the light in everything.
What do you miss the most?
Drinking wine with my friends...

Susanna

@susannaantico

Susanna

11 May 2020

Gent, Belgium

Who can it be now - Men at work

What are you most thankful for?
I am in very confortable place, there is space, there is a nice view. I am allowed, although by myself, to take walks along the nearby river and breathe fresh air. Internet is working very well. I do not know anyone who got sick.
What do you miss the most?
Two main things. I miss the leadership that all governments' should provide. I see no perspective no strategies. Improvisation seems to be the supreme authority. I miss the smiling looks of the people and not being allowed to hug someone else.
What have you learnt from this experience?
That nothing should be taken for granted. For the good or for the bad the most unexpected, unthinkable and surprisingly event can suddenly happen. So now, more than ever, Carpe diem!

Sharon Maghnagi

@sharonmhk

Sharon Maghnagi

11 May 2020

Hong Kong

Flames by David Guetta & Sia

What have you learnt from this experience?
I have learnt how to better prepare for the next lockdown.  That those short walks outside, (I never used to want to take), are very restorative.  I have also learnt that I should never attempt to cut my own hair. 
What are you most thankful for?
1) My health.
2) Technology.  Its kept us connected, productive, informed and entertained.  At one point, I had no WiFi...was very thankful to get it back.
3) Time.  Even if I look at it as something lost, then I would still be thankful - when I think of all the other kinds of loss suffered.  
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Everything Women in Lighting!  

Sabine De Schutter

@studiodeschutter

Sabine De Schutter

11 May 2020

Berlin

Angèle - oui ou non

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Tiger King :D
What do you miss the most?
real life social gatherings and visiting inspiring places
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Focus on the good, there are so many nice things to do from home. Enjoy this extraordinary situation!

Sophie O’Rourke

Instagram: @stubbzclassic

Sophie O’Rourke

10 May 2020

London, UK

Don't stand so close to me - The Police

What have you learnt from this experience?
I am so intrigued by the sheer number of people saying that now they are settling into this new way of life that they are actually feeling less stressed, more focused and calmer. Personally speaking, the temporary lack of constant pressure to be 'doing' is such a relief. And oh my god look at global CO2 emissions plummeting! It is so clear that this was the giant global change needed to kick start a new way of living – a total paradigm shift. Obviously this lockdown is not the ideal, but neither was way we lived before. I really hope that things don’t go back the way they were, but I hope they don’t stay like this either. I’m looking forward to a better future.
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Getting lost cycling, plants, food.
What do you miss the most?
I miss going to gigs and getting deep in the lovely, sweaty, messy moshpits. I miss museums and galleries. I miss seeing friends and family in person - i miss their hugs. However, a huge unexpected upside of this is seeing my friends more often virtually - especially all the ones back home in Australia and scattered all around the world. Also........ I think i'm even beginning to miss the tube.

Rosa A de Arcaya

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-arcaya-27040a49/

Rosa A de Arcaya

9 May 2020

London

Any type of reggaeton unfortunatelly, I dance with my little cousin every night

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Time
Mindfulness
Appreciation
Health
Relationships
What’s for lunch?
Salade Niçoise

A couple of days ago I received a cookbook by suprise. One of my friends sent it to me so we can cook together during lockdown. Is these little things that make me smile and look forward to things. Love her and love this Southern French cuisine cook book.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
I would say to make the most out of it. Adapt to the new situation, do things for a reason and support the people around you as much as you can! Everything will be okay.

Isis Gomez

@on_the_black_canvas (IG)

Isis Gomez

9 May 2020

Acassuso, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Do I Wanna Know?_ Artic Monkey _ AM Album

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Calm
Uncertainty
Recognize
Feeling
Rethinking
What have you learnt from this experience?
That I needed this downtime to be able to recognize situations that I was overlooking. That I can always start again. That sometimes you can count on the people you least thought about. To realize how much I miss my family. To have faith in the world again ...
What are your hopes for the future?
My hope is that the spirit of collaboration and unity present now extends beyond quarantine and becomes the new normal. And that taking care of nature become an essential part of our life.

Mara Spentza

https://www.facebook.com/maraspentzalightinarch/

Mara Spentza

9 May 2020

Serres, Greece

Killing me softly - The Fugees

What do you miss the most?
Nature !!the serenity of our beautiful Mountains and the infinity colors and sound of the SEA! and of course Live Theatre performances...
What have you learnt from this experience?
To slow down - stop - breathe - communicate in depth.that LESS is MORE...and that EDUCATION is the magic word!
How are you feeling today?
Positive and Ispired by the explosion in Communication and need to Share... that this quarantine has ignited.

Sarah Ruahton-Read

The Natural Light Project

Sarah Ruahton-Read

9 May 2020

Brighton, UK

Living Next Door To Alice

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Hollywood
What are you most thankful for?
Rick Stein’s Long Weekends, my family, my brand new baby grand daughter, living by the sea, having the South Downs on my Doorstep, the Brighton Breastcare team, my team at The Fifth Estate, my garden, my husband, my job, being alive!
What are you doing to help feel connected?
Sending long emails to friends and colleagues, talking on the phone, selecting my source of news carefully and avoiding the BBC, talking to my family daily, avoiding social media, going for walks, reading graffiti!

Tania Burguete

facebook

Tania Burguete

8 May 2020

Mexico City

Dancing with myself by The Cure

What are you most thankful for?
being able to still work from home
What are you doing to help feel connected?
call my friends on the phone and using zoom like crazy
What’s for lunch?
brownies!!!

Alice

Alice

8 May 2020

Milano

Wishing Girl by Lola Marsh

What do you miss the most?
To hug my friends and family
What have you learnt from this experience?
I’m learning to slow down, and I hope I won’t forget it!
What are you most thankful for?
I’m thankful for my friends and family to be all fine, I’m thankful for my partner to be here with me and since all we can do is staying at home, I’m thankful for having a home!

Ya-hui Cheng

facebook

Ya-hui Cheng

8 May 2020

Taiwan

Rain_Sekai No Owari

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Happy to spend time inwards
What are you most thankful for?
Anything can happen unexpectedly at any time. So enjoy NOW. I think for the time I am still keeping.
What do you miss the most?
outdoor activities

Lisa Marchesi

https://www.instagram.com/marchesi_lisa/

Lisa Marchesi

8 May 2020

Brugherio (little city close to Milano)

The cure - A strange day

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
time: "the time of kindness" it is a virtuous circle of solidarity and humanity done by us (red cross volunteers)
safe: respect the rules
courage: be safe, be brave
memories: remember this experience for the future
silence: enjoy the silence
What are your hopes for the future?
that all the people in the world are fine
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
we are women and we are strong together

Christina Thanasoula

https://www.instagram.com/christinathanasoula/

Christina Thanasoula

7 May 2020

Athens, Greece

Bohemian Rhapsody

How are you feeling today?
Motivated
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
I've watched Frankenstein on the National Theatre you tube channel (UK) and it blew my mind. The lighting design was exceptional!
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Keep on studying and developing skills, there is always something more to learn and get good at.

Carolina

Carolina

7 May 2020

Roma, Italia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ivg3J3h5Ps

How are you feeling today?
Great! back to the office and feeling good vibrations about the future
What are you most thankful for?
The people I love and who love me back, that support me every day and give me the joy and the energy to face life with a smile
What’s for lunch?
mozzarella, rughetta e speck =)

Giulia Brighi

https://instagram.com/giulia.bri?igshid=1i1euxj6lgbda

Giulia Brighi

7 May 2020

London

Chan Chan - Buena Vista Social Club

What are your hopes for the future?
I strongly believe we will change how we live this life. More respectful for the environment, for example in one year I would like to be the perfect zero waste and ecological person. During this lockdown I was surprised see how the nature comes back to live in a lot of cities! More flexible and empathetic with people, not only in our personal life but also in the work environment. With this COVID-19 we realize we are all the same, no distinction between genders, nationality and color of the skin. I’m very positive.
What are you doing to help feel connected?
I try to do workout after work and play with some handcraft skills! For example I did my first Macrame in one hour (quite simple, but lovely). Of course, videocalls with family and friends make me feel more close to my origins.
What’s for lunch?
Handmade pumpkin ravioli (done by my lovely boyfriend)

Sarah Elise Sartore

https://www.instagram.com/aranel_again/

Sarah Elise Sartore

7 May 2020

Italy

Hope - Bauhaus

What are you most thankful for?
I'm very thankful for all the time spent with my family. The good morning cuddles with my kids are something very special of this period.
What have you learnt from this experience?
I learnt that it takes very little to takes us away what we have, so it is important to concentrate on the very essentials and protect them.
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
I really need to get to know what I want, and carry it on.

Francesca Feltrin

Instagram @ffeltrina

Francesca Feltrin

7 May 2020

London, UK

Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode

What do you miss the most?
Visiting my family and boyfriend, having dinner with friends, books shopping, yoga classes
What have you learnt from this experience?
Taking more time for myself and relaxing is definitely a pro of this strange experience. Just reading a book, gardening or hanging out with my housemates. My stress level is lower than usual, for sure!
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
War and Peace by Dostoevskij, Brilliant by Jane Brox and After Life on Netflix.

Martina Frattura

Martina Frattura

7 May 2020

Lisbon, Portugal

Blur - Tender

What are you most thankful for?
I am grateful for being healthy and safe
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Patience - Training - Timing - Schedule - Reconsiderations
What’s for lunch?
Handmade pasta!

Sarah Toward

https://www.instagram.com/trends.lighting/

Sarah Toward

7 May 2020

Dornbirn, Austria

A change is gonna come, Sam Cooke

Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
Promoting LpS Digital and aiming to have more voices heard without the need to travel.
How are you feeling today?
On fire as I have 2 hours childcare for the first time in 8 weeks.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Unorthodox. Intriguing and authentic.

Annukka Larsen

Instagram @annukkalarsen

Annukka Larsen

7 May 2020

Tampere, Finland

Master Blaster (Jammin’) by Stevie Wonder

What are you most thankful for?
I’m most thankful that this lockdown happened in springtime - dark and wet winter would have been much more difficult in sense of sanity.
What are you doing to help feel connected?
We have afternoon coffees with colleagues over Teams, afterwork drinks in Zoom (today with Finnish light ladies!), calls with friends with funny face filters in Messenger and long walks with family..
What’s for lunch?
Salmon and creamy potatoes with fresh sallad. Green apple as a dessert. Followed by a short walk in the sun.

Giordana Arcesilai

Instagram

Giordana Arcesilai

7 May 2020

Bologna, Italy

Forbidden colours - Ryuichi Sakamoto

5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Neighborhood, atmosphere, webinars, learning, connectivity
What have you learnt from this experience?
I’ve learnt that it’s important to study always and learn more and more
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Make your brain work, but don’t forget your body

Roberto Corradini

twitter.com/RobCorradiniLD

Roberto Corradini

7 May 2020

in a little village not so far from Venice, Italy

"Kommt, Ihr Angefochtnen Sunder" from J. S. Bach's Cantata BWV 30, sung by Magdalena Kozena

What do you miss the most?
Travel and meet friends in every part of the world
What have you learnt from this experience?
I learnt to be patient, but also always positive for my family and my close friends.
I also used the lockdown time for gaining new skills. I completed some online courses, received a dozen of Certificates of Achievement and I am improving my Russian! Thus, I will be able to make grammatical mistakes in more languages than ever!
What are you most thankful for?
Thanks God, me and my family are well in health and spirit. My close friends are closer than ever. The night is full of stars. I am thankful for all this.

Dipali Shirsat

https://www.instagram.com/di_luminescence/

Dipali Shirsat

7 May 2020

Dubai

Ek zindagi - Angrezi Medium

What are you most thankful for?
While many are suffering from the negative impact of the pandemic, I am really thankful for having roof under my head and having the basic necessities easily accessible.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Inside Bill's Brain: Decoding Bill Gates

What are your hopes for the future?
I hope the future holds something good for everyone and I hope people will become more empathetic, act responsible and nurture our environment.

Barbara Arena

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/barbara-arena-49943511

Barbara Arena

7 May 2020

London

I wish I knew how it would feel to be free - Nina Simone

What’s for lunch?
All kind of colourful salads from the Mediterranean and Middle East, Zoodles
What do you miss the most?
Have a dance with friends, playing with my little nephews, hugs and kisses. Can’t choose one!
What have you learnt from this experience?
I’ve learned to better listen to myself and to the others, I’ve learn to spread love and hope without running around.

Artem Masorin

@artem.masorin

Artem Masorin

7 May 2020

Frankfurt am Main

Dead Or Alive - You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)

What do you miss the most?
I extremely miss ice-cream in cones on the way to a city park
5 words to describe your lockdown experience
Family, Online, Sims, Share, Rethink
What are you most thankful for?
I am thankful that my wife made it back home from a trip before all the flights got cancelled so we could be at the lockdown together (:

Paula A Serna

@estudiodedos.co

Paula A Serna

7 May 2020

Medellin, Colombia

Circles - Post Malone

What have you learnt from this experience?
I learned to value every minimum detail that brings us happiness. See that excess is not necessary to be happy. What I want most at the moment is not in the material things. u know?
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
In this time I have dedicated myself to studying colors and all their study through feelings and perseption.
I'm currently reading "Theory of colors" Goethe
What are you most thankful for?
I am very thankful to my family that we have managed to contact and unite us in a virtual way. Thankful to my colleagues who have shared their experiences and knowledge with everyone. I have learned a lot in this time !!! New theories, new perspectives, new knowledge! KEEP ON LIGHT!

Menekse Seyma Kaya

Menekse Seyma Kaya

7 May 2020

Dublin

California Dream

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Chef's Table
What are you doing to help feel connected?
Yoga & Mindfulness
What do you miss the most?
A lazy brunch with friends

Valery Gorelova

@valery.gorelova

Valery Gorelova

7 May 2020

Moscow

Mad About You - Hooverphonic

What do you miss the most?
Travelling! I even miss travelling around the city or a nearby park. Moving is the best way to think and stay creative for me. Morning and evening promenades with my dog always helped me to balance the daily routine and separate private life from work. Government restrictions in my area don`t allow people to go far from home without a special pass. So the first thing I will do after the quarantine is to book the flight somewhere (I haven't decided yet)
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Book: Murakami`s "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage"
Netflix: "How to get away with murder" (ABC)
What are you most thankful for?
I am very grateful to my friends and colleagues for support and inspirational talks about light and business. Also, can not mention all webinars and inspirational interviews that happened recent month. The way we share experience in knowledge even in a small dose helps to stay connected and move through the whole situation together.

Juliette Nielsen

@beersnielsen

Juliette Nielsen

7 May 2020

Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Catalina, Rosalía

What do you miss the most?
Feeling the sand on the beach between my toes...
How are you feeling today?
Like a juggler having to keep 20 balls in the air...
What are your hopes for the future?
Seeing all my family, friends and my whole team live soon!! No flat images of people but real 3D!!!

Matt Waring

Instagram - @matt_waring24

Matt Waring

6 May 2020

Stockport, UK

Rosalita - Bruce Springsteen (I've gotten big into the Boss over the last couple of weeks!)

What do you miss the most?
Being able to socialise in person with friends and colleagues. Zoom is fine to a point but with it being so nice and sunny recently, I'd love to be able to sit in a sunny beer garden with a cold pint and good company!
What have you learnt from this experience?
That it's actually possible for me to work from home without getting easily distracted! And that despite being quite opposed to it before, Facetiming/Zoom/Hangouts/video chats aren't really all that bad.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
I'm currently reading Bruce Springsteen's autobiography (hence the song choice), which is naturally excellent - he's such a good storyteller in his songs, and this translates to his writing as well! In terms of Netflix binges, my wife and I have been steadily working through the Studio Ghibli back catalogue now that it's on Netflix, which is absolutely delightful and a welcome dose of positivity.

WIL Ambassador in Russia Olga Tuzova

https://www.facebook.com/olga.wlight

WIL Ambassador in Russia Olga Tuzova

6 May 2020

Milan, Italy

Toto Cutugno - L'Italiano

What do you miss the most?
nature, walking in my park
What have you learnt from this experience?
the World is so beautiful! Each detail in it is perfect!
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
The world has changed. And it won't be the same again. What can we do now? Sit grieving that the old life will not return, or build a new one. It’s always our choice. People will be divided into 2 parts: some will remain in the past, others will go to the future. Be the second ones - we can build a new World together, more intelligent, wiser!

Momena Saleem

@momenasaleem

Momena Saleem

6 May 2020

Lahore, Pakistan

Don't Stop Believin' - Journey

What are you most thankful for?
Seeing the sunrise and the sunset everyday from my terrace! Witnessing the beauty of the night sky, the stars twinkling with light and the moon - every night no matter which phase it's in. It is so beautiful.
What have you learnt from this experience?
How to keep myself calm and composed, in the uncertain times and how to make the best out of it!
What are your hopes for the future?
Something great is going to happen!

Amy Nelson

instagram @amynelson_

Amy Nelson

6 May 2020

Montclair, NJ, USA

The Lion Sleeps Tonight by the Tokens

What do you miss the most?
I miss my family more than anything! I just can't wait to embrace once again.
What are you most thankful for?
I'm so very thankful for my family's health and safety. Additional I'm grateful to have an outdoor space to relax without worry.
What are you doing to help feel connected?
We've been Facetiming with my parents often! My 10 month old brings joy to them even from a distance. Zoom meet-ups with friends and colleagues also help break up the monotony.

Maureen Moran

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-moran-502b896

Maureen Moran

6 May 2020

Washington DC

96 Tears!

What do you miss the most?
Restaurants
What are you doing to help feel connected?
Internet
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Edison Biography

Heidi

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-de-lucchi-4a0a91110

Heidi

6 May 2020

United Kingdom

Guns ‘N Roses – Welcome To The Jungle

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
I happily jump on the Tiger King bandwagon!
What have you learnt from this experience?
Although nothing beats a face to face meeting, we can still cover everything via digital interfaces. I think this will continue going forward
What do you miss the most?
Family and friends, and although I never thought I would ever say this, I miss being stuck in traffic!

Allan Howard

illuminator_42

Allan Howard

6 May 2020

United Kingdom

Pink Floyd, Shine on you crazy diamond

What are you most thankful for?
Bird song, I am on the flight path to Luton airport, no planes and just the joy of bird song
Which project are you most looking forward to working on?
A CIE Technical research panel looking at the obtrusive lighting control / mitigation requirements for media screens and facades.
Any advice to WIL still in lockdown?
Try / learn something new, I have just brought a Unicycle .......... (mid life crisis perhaps)

Martin Lupton

@lightcollective

Martin Lupton

6 May 2020

Birmingham, UK

Ante Up - Remix M.O.P feat. Busta Rhymes

Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
It's a guilty pleasure but the one I will probably remember the most is Tiger King!!
What’s for lunch?
Avocado on toast with tomatoes and salt.
What are you most thankful for?
That my friends and family are all safe and healthy at the moment plus that I am allowed out to run every day.

XL Chia

@octopus.sg

XL Chia

3 May 2020

Calabria, Italy

Attaboy, Goat Rodeo Sessions

How are you feeling today?
Excited! The lockdown in Italy will ease *a little* tomorrow. I'm looking forward to walking to town again.
Your best read/Netflix binge during lockdown?
Discworld has been a fantastic escape.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope we learn that GDP is not a good indicator of well-being, and that we will be able to restart our lives by being inclusive of those we used to take for granted or ignore.

Katia Kolovea

@archifos

Katia Kolovea

29 April 2020

Athens, Greece

Bob Marley - Everything’s gonna be alright

What do you miss the most?
Hugging my friends and just walking around without worries, masks, gloves, etc.
What have you learnt from this experience?
Nothing should ever be taken for granted again plus it's interesting to be completely out of your comfort zone once in a while.
What are you doing to help feel connected?
Sharing photos and moments with my friends and family, a lot of video conferencing, voice messages, and shared online experiences.  Just need to add here: Thank you Internet, Thank you technology 

Sharon Stammers

@LightCollective

Sharon Stammers

29 April 2020

London, UK

Say Hey (I Love You) by Michael Franti

What do you miss the most?
Sometimes it physically hurts how much I miss my family and friends. 
I also miss the small things like swimming at the lido and going out to eat.
What are you most thankful for?
To be in my own home with my family, safe, healthy and with access to food and medicine. 
What have you learnt from this experience?
That life being out of my control is ok. I’ve always been obsessed with being in control of everything - now I know that it’s alright to let go.

Your Interviews

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

An expanding archive submitted by Women in Lighting from around the world. Whatever part of lighting you work in – design, product, manufacturing, art, research, professional development or education – we are interested in your story.

Submission Guidelines   Submit Your Interview

Submission Form

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
We’d love to hear about your journey in Lighting!
Please make sure you have read and adhere to the submission guidelines.

Submission Guidelines

Submission Guidelines

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

SUBMISSION OF YOUR OWN WOMEN IN LIGHTING INTERVIEW.

We want this project to be an expanding archive telling the stories of Women in Lighting from around the world. Whatever part of lighting you work in – design, product, manufacturing, art, research, professional development or education – we are interested in your story.

Your upload can be video, audio, pictures & text or a written article – it’s up to you. Please don’t make it a sales pitch for you or your company and please try to make it a positive and inspirational experience for people to enjoy. The main aim of this project is to create a platform for the promotion of women working in the lighting industry so that their stories are heard and their profiles are raised. We believe in gender equality, the #balanceforbetter and the positive power of both genders working together. Although the lighting industry is generally well–balanced in gender, the profile of women is much lower – we want to change that.

The Women in Lighting project is inclusive of all people who identify as women.

We thank you for taking time to contribute to this project and look forward to getting to know you and your lighting story. 

 

THE QUESTIONS.

Below are the standard questions we have asked everyone. Some people have chosen to omit some questions as they feel they don’t apply to them or some people have adjusted them to make them more suitable to their story. Each interview is intended to be around 10 minutes long but to date they have ranged from 7 to 20 minutes. It’s up to you to judge how long your story needs to be but our experience is that people prefer a more focussed interview.

  1. Introduce yourself (name, company, position, country) and tell us how you got into lighting (including education/qualifications).
  2. Tell us about your work – is there a specific type of project you like to work on or an area you specialise in and why?
  3. What project are you most proud of and why?
  4. What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome in your career?
  5. How does light inspire you?
  6. What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

 

RESOURCES.

We have provided some resources for your interview that you can use if you want, you don’t have to, but they are available here for download and include:

  • A blank Final Cut Pro project file with the titles, graphics, sub-titles and the fades we have used for our interviews.
  • An Adobe Illustrator .ai file of the title slide for you to modify. An Enscapsulated Post Script .eps format of the same is also included.
  • A Keynote Presentation with a version of the titles, graphics, lower thirds and fades as we have used for our interviews. This has also been exported as a PowerPoint file but we’re not sure how good the export is as we don’t have PowerPoint to check!
  • The Women In Lighting background
  • The Women in Lighting logo in black, white and coral
  • The end credit slide

Download Resources

 

The official font for the project is Josefin Sans, it would be great if you can use this to help keep the site consistent. It can be downloaded here.

If you need something else that we haven’t provided, please feel free to ask. We can’t guarantee we’ll be able to provide it, but if we can we will. The format is not strict, we’re happy for you to adapt what we have provided or even do your own thing – whatever works best for you and your story. The aim should be to produce a 10 minute inspirational story of your lighting journey.

 

TIPS.

If you are going to do a video interview we would offer the following advice. Please note that we are not experts in this field so some of this advice may not be the best way to do things but it has worked ok for us so far! All of our recordings are done on a camera and an iPad but an iPhone would be equally capable of producing a good result.

  • Handle each question separately, don’t try to do the whole thing in one take.
  • Make sure you are in a quiet place with an interesting or neutral background – take care not to have any distractions in the background or props sticking out of peoples heads or ears!
  • It really helps to use a tripod to ensure that the camera is steady and doesn’t move/wobble during the interview. There are lots of Smart Phone tripod mounts available on Amazon or eBay.
  • Frame the speaker in view thinking about their position. Consider the camera shot as split into thirds and place the subject in the opposite third to the direction that they are looking. For example, if the interviewee is looking to the right of the camera, place them on the left third of the frame.
  • Think about the lighting and try to get your face well lit either from natural light or electric lighting. Make sure it’s as flattering as possible and doesn’t cause shadows or reflections in glasses, etc.
  • If you are using a Smart Phone it can be useful to record in 4K as you can scale your shot to create a close-up without losing any quality which can be useful if you need to edit something out of your recording. On an iPhone go “Settings / Camera / Record Video” to enable 4K recording. All the final films should be uploaded as 1080p.
  • We have used two camera angles to give enable us to edit out hesitations or mistakes without needing to re–shoot but one camera angle will work fine.
  • In order to get good audio we would suggest that you invest in an external microphone. We have used this one successfully on both our iPad and camera.
  • In your final edit you can also cover glitches and mistakes with project images and edit out the element you don’t want in your final version.
  • If you are going to do an audio interview, then we would also suggest you use an external microphone connected to your Smart Phone to record the sound.

 

Terms & Conditions.

Please ensure that your submission complies with the following terms and conditions:

  • Each Participant must currently be a woman working with light. This can be as a designer, an artist, a manufacturer, a journalist, within a professional organisation or an educator for example. Although started within the architectural lighting industry, we welcome submissions for women working in lighting for film, theatre, entertainment, etc.
  • Your Interview may be in a language different to English but we ask that you provide subtitles or a translation.
  • Your Interview must contain original images/footage or content from others that you have permission to use. It must not infringe the copyright of any third party or laws.
  • The copyright for the Submission remains with the Participant. However, in producing the Submission, each Participant grants an unlimited worldwide, irrevocable, perpetual license, free of charge to the Women In Lighting (WIL) Project allowing full reproduction rights to use the Interview in an exhibition, film or any other format or publicity relating to the WIL Project. This includes the use as a whole or in parts.
  • Each Participant must complete the required information fields and agree to be contacted later by the WIL Project for updated information.
  • Each Participant explicitly warrants and represents to be entitled to grant the rights to WIL to use images/footage/audio/content and any other information in any form whatsoever (the "Material") included in their Interview / Submission, and that such Material was a) free of errors at the time of their Submission, b) does not infringe any trademark or intellectual property of third parties, c) does not offend against good morals, d) does not harm any persons or companies (including the warranty and representation that contents or materials are not defamatory).
  • All Participants understand and agree that WIL may use any part of their Submission for marketing and promotional purposes including any medium and that there will not be any monetary compensation awarded to the Participants by WIL in exchange for such use.
  • Although WIL will try to ensure appropriate credits are given where possible, WIL shall not be obligated to mention the author of contributions or photos by name. Should authors nevertheless assert claims against WIL the Participant shall release and hold harmless WIL and its managers / representatives from and against any such claims.
  • The Participant shall indemnify WIL and the project managers / representatives against all claims from third parties arising due to alleged or actual infringements.
  • WIL and its project managers / representatives are not responsible for any damages resulting from images submitted by Participants which are in violation to these rules.
  • For video & audio interviews, submit your interview by uploading it to a video/audio streaming provider, such as Youtube, Vimeo, Soundcloud, Facebook and so on, which allows embeds in our website. Please whitelist https://womeninlighting.com if you are restricting access.
  • Text interviews should be submitted as Word, Pages, .txt or PDFs. Please upload to a file hosting provider such as Dropbox, Google Drive or your own server. You will be asked to provide the links in the submission form.
  • Submissions will not be approved before upload but periodically reviewed. We reserve the right to take down any videos if they are deemed to be inappropriate. An inappropriate video is one that does not adhere to the aims and standards of the project. i.e. there should be no product sales, no offensive comments about anyone else or general negativity. We want you to share your path in the lighting industry with the aim of inspiring other people.
  • Submission will be taken to mean acceptance of these terms and conditions.

 

Submit Your Interview

Privacy Policy

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Purpose of Collecting and Keeping Personal Data

  1. Women in Lighting (WIL) will use personal data collected from you for the purposes for which it was collected. 
  2. WIL may use your personal data (including your name, job title, company name, contact details such as email and other information collected in your profile such as the event(s) or programmes you participated in or wish to participate in, the areas of interest you indicated, reviews, feedback and opinions and any other personal data you choose to provide to us etc.) for one or more of the following purposes including, but not limited to:
    1. the provision of services for events, programs and volunteers through this Website, management and communications purposes including surveys, feedback collection and research whether via electronic mail, etc.
    2. the provision of updates and direct marketing (via email or other means of communication including social media online, or e-newsletters) in relation to our programs, research, courses, volunteer opportunities, workshops and events, opportunities for sponsorship, networking, advocacy campaigns, opinion sharing, news updates, information and other related services or benefits provided by WIL and/or other partners or organisations.

Privacy of personal data and disclosure

  1. Your personal data will be kept strictly confidential and securely kept. 
  2. WIL will not divulge, sell, trade or rent personal data to external parties for their own purpose. 
  3. However, WIL may disclose or transfer such personal data where such disclosure is necessary to satisfy the above purpose, or a directly related purpose, for which the data was collected, to any third party under a duty of confidentiality to WIL.

Access and correction of personal data 

  1. You are entitled to request access to and correct your personal data held by WIL, and request us to cease to use of your personal data at any time without charge. 
  2. You may opt out of receiving marketing communications at any time by following the unsubscribe instructions contained in the marketing communications or contacting WIL at [email protected] with your full name and contact details. 
  3. If you are in a EU Member State, you have the right, subject to certain limitations or restrictions, under the data protection laws in the EU to: 
    1. request access to and rectification or erasure of your personal data; 
    2. obtain restriction of processing or to object to processing of your personal data; and
    3. the right to data portability.

Individuals in the EU also have the right to lodge a complaint about the processing of their personal data with their local data protection authority.

  1. Data access or correction requests should be addressed to us in writing to: [email protected]
  2. WIL reserves the right to update, revise, modify or amend this Privacy Policy from time to time as WIL deems necessary so please review it frequently. Changes and clarifications will take effect immediately upon their posting on the Website. If we make material changes to this Privacy Policy we will notify you here that it has been updated, so that you are aware of what information we collect, how we use it, and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose.
  3. Should you have any enquiries about WIL’s Privacy Policy and practices, please contact [email protected] 

Blog

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

News, Events, Press & Interesting Reads about the Women in Lighting Project. 
Join the conversation with #iamawomanoflight and our newsletter

Partners

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Women in lighting design have somehow broken the glass ceiling in many parts of the world by creating their own destiny, starting their own firms and being recognised for their achievements. With more awareness, communication and mentoring we can continue to educate and support those who still struggle and ensure future generations will continue to succeed in lighting design and other parts of the industry.

Barbara Horton, Lighting Designer

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Women In Lighting Supporters

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50/50 Supporters

Events, committees, awards etc who have agreed to try and create a 50/50 gender balance when selecting speakers or juries etc.

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Women In Entertainment Lighting Supporter

[email protected]

Male Supporters

Our male supporters who are committed to gender equality and who are continuously seeking to help us achieve it.

Male Supporters

Join Us

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges
The Women in Lighting Project is committed to extending its membership to all female-identified members of the lighting community, and is further open to women, gender non-conforming and non-binary individuals.
Get the weekly Newsletter Join the WIL Entertainment Newsletter

Submit Your Interview

Whatever part of lighting you work in – design, product, manufacturing, art, research, professional development or education – we are interested in your story.

Submission Guidelines   Submit Your Interview

What’s Next?

For everyone who have contacted us and stated they would like to get involved or help in some way, now is the time. Things you can do to get involved:

  • Sign up for our newsletter, where we send regular updates about the project.
  • Contact your local ambassador for the project and create a real life community.
  • Create a specific event to network in your country.
  • Start a project in your own country.
  • Upload your own interview.
  • Keep up with us on social media (links in footer) and share information. Please share any press on the project as well!
  • Join the online communities and talk to one another. Don’t forget to check the LinkedIn group. Some people are asking the network questions and it would be good to help them out if you can.
  • Tell us about any conferences in your country that we can approach to participate in our 50/50 initiative.
  • Most importantly please tell us what you want to do and how we can help you. We will of course accommodate anything we can on the website. Contact us on [email protected] if you have an idea.

Let’s get this network moving.

WIL Global Network

Argentina: Instagram
Brazil: Instagram
Colombia: Instagram
Cyprus: Facebook Group
Egypt: Facebook Page / Instagram
Finland: Instagram
Georgia: Instagram
Germany: Facebook Page
Hong Kong: Instagram
Iceland: Facebook Page
India: Facebook Page / Instagram
Iran: Instagram / LinkedIn
Italy: Facebook Page / Instagram
Japan: Facebook Group / Instagram
Jordan: Instagram
MEA: Facebook Group / Instagram
Mexico: Facebook Group / Instagram
Pakistan: Facebook Page / Instagram
Portugal: Facebook Page / Instagram
Puerto Rico & Caribbean: Instagram
Russia: Facebook Page / Instagram
Slovakia: Instagram
Sweden: Instagram
Sydney: Facebook Group / Instagram
USA: Instagram
Venezuela: Instagram

Guidelines for Local WIL Pages on Social Media

I have been inspired for many years now, starting during my architectural studies at Bristol University. I selected lighting for my dissertation as I have always been fascinated by how natural light can penetrate a building, how the use of skylight windows articulates this and have a significant effect on the appearance of a building. This led to a study of how, as daylight faded, I could articulate a totally different impression with artificial light. This would sometimes be a total contrast to the downward effect of natural light with uplight. Playing with reflection and direct glazing techniques.

In the 80’s, during my early years in the field, I was one of the first women to choose lighting as a career when hardly anyone was pursuing this. Still to this day, I am in love and continually inspired by this medium. I still will commission schemes until the early hours of the morning to achieve perfection. I still feel that everyday I am so lucky to be inspired by this work.

Sally Storey, Lighting Designer

Project Interviews

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Ambassadors

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Women in Lighting ambassadors are a point of contact in each location for you to find out more about or become involved in the project.

About

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

The Team

Light Collective

Light Collective consists of Sharon Stammers and Martin Lupton who have both been involved in the lighting industry for over 20 years. Based in the UK and essentially architectural lighting designers, their portfolio of work has diversified in many different directions – light activism being one of them. Email them at [email protected]

 

Sharon Stammers

“Having been involved in lighting design from the very beginning, women have had a greater role in shaping the lighting design profession than in architecture and engineering. The lighting design profession is a supportive industry for women and the many routes into the profession offer opportunities from a diverse set of backgrounds. It is an industry that is good at sharing information amongst its community and can therefore offer support to other women who may need it. We want to encourage women to choose to work in lighting or other related jobs.”

Sharon Stammers, Light Collective
Martin Lupton

“We started this project to try and make a difference. Although women make up at least 50% of the lighting design profession, you only have to look at the number of women speaking at major conferences, acting as judges in awards, being asked as keynotes and serving on editorial boards to realise that the profile of women is significantly lower than men. We want to change this.”

Martin Lupton, Light Collective
Forma Family

formalighting

The project launch is being supported by formalighting, a family owned Italian lighting designer and manufacturer with over 50 years and 2 generations dedicated to architectural lighting. Light Collective approached formalighting with this project as they are a company with a strong inspirational woman in a lead role – Sharon Maghnagi, based in their Hong Kong headquarters. Email her at [email protected]

Katia Kolovea

Katia Kolovea

Katia Kolovea is a lighting enthusiast, communication strategist, and advocate of the lighting design profession. After the completion of her studies in Greece, Spain, and Sweden, she moved to London where she has been collaborating with a range of professionals from different industries. Her excitement about light and people led her to create her personal online platform archifos. She loves public speaking, sharing ideas, designing with light, and raising awareness for the importance of light in our lives. Email her at [email protected] 

Mentoring

Introduction / The Designs / The Judges

Some of the women on our site have agreed to be available as mentors, to support the growth and development of other women. Please contact them directly to see if you are a good match.

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