Your Interview Momoko Kamemoto

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

I am Momoko Kamemoto, and I work as a lighting designer at Tomita Lighting Design Office Inc.

When I was a college student, I made a kind of “infinity mirror” unintentionally while working on a lighting piece, one time. It was reflecting in my hand and shining as if it had been literally infinite. I was fascinated by the unlimited possibility and uniqueness of the light. I think that excitement made me pursue my career in the lighting design business.

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?

I usually work on projects related to public facilities, common spaces in office buildings, and Landscapes. I like projects close to people such as housing because I can talk with the users and they tell me their thoughts or impressions about my design directly. Mostly these are nice words to me.

What project are you most proud of and why?

I would say I feel delighted and proud of myself that I've made the lights of the city when I look at nightscape from a height and find the facade lightings of the buildings which I’ve engaged in here and there.

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

Lighting design requires on-site adjustments and confirmations mainly at night time, but I can’t go there sometimes because it’s tough for me to leave my house at night behind my children.

How does light inspire you?

Light is something I am instinctively attracted to, like motherhood. It brings us warmth, thoughtfulness, strength, and pleasant excitement.

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

I feel happy and reassured to know that there are so many women in the lighting design business all over the world. I think the strong, soft, and calm sense a woman has is similar to a tender light. Let’s expand wonderful spaces with the lights together.

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Translated by Akane H