Your Interview Bining Xu

Photo.png

Bining Xu

Designer, Technician
China
Introduce yourself (name, company, position, country) and tell us how you got into lighting design (including education/qualifications).

Hello, my name is Bining Xu, and I’m currently working as a lighting designer at Kawa Lighting in NYC. I graduated from BerkleeNYC's Live Music Production and Design program, which first introduced me to the world of lighting. The moment I saw the classroom dimmed into darkness and felt the space around me transform by lighting beams, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in lighting.

My passion for lighting comes from my love for science fiction and fascination with electromagnetic waves. The idea that lighting, as part of the electromagnetic spectrum, can shape our perception of space immediately drew me in. During my studies and subsequent work experience, I became captivated by the transformative power of lighting in live events and productions.

Whenever the house lights dim, it feels as though the space around us becomes surreal and full of potential. All attention focuses on the brightest points, and it's the lighting plot and cues that gradually reintroduce the reality of the space, guiding the audience through a shared experience. There’s something magical about the way beams flash across the stage, illuminating not just the performers but the smiles and emotions of the audience. In those moments, I feel truly alive, knowing that lighting plays a crucial role in creating those connections.

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?

Currently, I work on lighting design, programming, and fixture maintenance for concerts and nightclubs. I find great satisfaction in understanding the technical aspects of fixtures and mastering show files. On-site troubleshooting is a major part of the job, and having this technical knowledge helps me solve problems efficiently and create seamless shows.

For me, it’s not just about achieving the final result but also about the process—troubleshooting, fine-tuning, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. It's the combination of technical precision and creative execution that makes this work so engaging and rewarding.

What project are you most proud of and why?

The project I’m most proud of is a 30-minute visual-audio interactive show called Gateway. The artists were focused on creating real-time visuals and aimed to deliver an immersive experience. They wanted to combine a minimalist aesthetic with a fusion of classical and experimental music, resulting in a slow-paced and abstract performance.

After discussing the lighting design, we decided to work with a cold white color palette to enhance the minimalist atmosphere. To bring the audience into the experience more deeply, I used mirror sheets on the floor. This allowed the light beams to reflect off the surfaces, making the lighting feel almost tangible, as if the audience was physically immersed in the beams of light. It was a subtle yet powerful way to fuse lighting with the space and the music.

What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome in your career?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve overcome was working on a student-hosted show that brought together multiple disciplines. The production was highly technical and complex, which made the rehearsal process particularly stressful and time-sensitive. As the lead lighting designer, I was responsible for meeting the diverse needs of several directors while also coordinating closely with the visual and audio teams to ensure smooth show control.

This experience was a real test of my time management and task prioritization skills, as I had to balance competing demands and stay calm under pressure. Looking back, I’m proud of how I navigated the challenge and am grateful for the collaboration it fostered. It not only strengthened my problem-solving abilities but also led to lasting friendships and professional connections.

How does light inspire you?

Light, as part of the electromagnetic spectrum, is everywhere in our daily lives, yet we often overlook its complexity and beauty. Before I started working in lighting, I never truly appreciated its power. A great designer once told me that lighting is like painting, and I’ve come to understand how true that is—it’s like painting in 3D, using light to shape space and immerse the audience in a story.

What fascinates me most about lighting is how it cuts through the darkness and gradually diffuses into the distance. Light doesn’t simply vanish; it keeps traveling indefinitely unless absorbed or obstructed, moving at an unimaginable speed into the future. This idea resonates with me, as it feels symbolic of how life continues to move forward, always casting light on new horizons.

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

My message for other women in lighting is to keep seeking out the aspects of the job that truly inspire and excite you, and don’t stop exploring them. Lighting offers so many opportunities for creativity and discovery, and finding that special element you love can make the journey all the more rewarding. This is what I’m always doing and it’s brought me both fulfillment and joy in my work.

Lives in:
New York
Born in:
Nanjing, China
Now works at:
Kawa Lighting

“What fascinates me most about lighting is how it cuts through the darkness and gradually diffuses into the distance. Light doesn’t simply vanish; it keeps traveling indefinitely.”

Selected portfolio:

Next Up

Back to Top