Brown University

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Brown University 2024 | Light in Art and Architecture Symposium

Moderator:
Dietrich Neumann, Professor of History of Art and Architecture at Brown University

Panel Conversation with:
Butch Rovan, Professor of Music of the Department of Music at Brown University

The Light in Art and Architecture symposium at Brown University continues the conversation around the innovative design of the Lindemann Performing Arts Center. This two-day event brings together contemporary light artists and architectural lighting designers to explore how light transforms spaces, enhances architecture, and creates ephemeral, transitory experiences.

On the second day of the symposium, four of today’s most prominent light artists and designers—Anthony McCall, Grimanesa Amorós, Jamie Carpenter, Jean Sundin, and Enrique Peiniger of OVI—will present examples of their work. Each artist will showcase how their practice enhances, modifies, and interprets architecture or creates standalone spaces that captivate and inspire.

Among the featured speakers, Grimanesa Amorós offers a unique perspective on the intersection of art, light, and architecture. Known for her large-scale light installations, Amorós shared behind-the-scenes insights into her creative process, highlighting how her work reflects cultural identity and social issues. She discussed her commissioned projects, emphasizing the collaborative nature of creating site-specific installations that engage communities and transform public spaces.

Amorós’s presentation also explored the technical and conceptual challenges of working with light as a medium. She demonstrated how her installations, often inspired by her Peruvian heritage, blend light, sculpture, and architecture to create immersive experiences that challenge perceptions and spark dialogue.

The symposium concluded with a roundtable discussion moderated by Brown faculty members that explored the future of art and technology. Panelists examined how advancements in lighting design and digital tools are reshaping artistic practices and architectural possibilities. The discussion highlighted the potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration to drive innovation and create meaningful, transformative experiences.

To see the guest speakers and moderators, please click here.
To watch the full symposium on YouTube from Brown University’s official channel, please click here.