Lighting

Definition

This term refers to the use of light in the creation or display of art, including both the design of lighting for artworks and the manipulation of light within a work to achieve specific visual or emotional effects, often used to enhance the perception of color, texture, and form, or to create mood and atmosphere.

History

The use of lighting has been a crucial element in art, particularly in painting and architecture, where artists have long understood the power of light to shape the viewer's experience. In contemporary art, lighting is often a central component of installations, with artists like Olafur Eliasson using light to transform entire environments and create immersive experiences.

Notable Examples

NALA term preview

Caravaggio

The Calling of Saint Matthew, 1599-1600

NALA term preview

Olafur Eliasson

The Weather Project, 2003

Key Artists & Movements

Key figures include Caravaggio, whose dramatic use of chiaroscuro (the contrast between light and dark) revolutionized Baroque painting, and Olafur Eliasson, whose large-scale installations use light to create immersive, experiential environments that engage the viewer's senses.

Techniques & Materials

Techniques involve the careful design and placement of light sources, whether natural or artificial, to enhance the visual impact of an artwork. Artists and designers may use lighting to highlight certain areas, create shadows, or alter the perception of color and form. In installation art, lighting is often an integral part of the work, designed to interact with the space and create a specific atmosphere or experience.

2940 Portland Dr.
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6H5W8
Khalifa Blvd, Dubai, UAE
[email protected]

Download
apple buttonplay button
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more