Light For Culture at International Museum Expo

At the International Museum Expo in Delhi, I contributed to an educational initiative exploring the complex relationship between light and cultural heritage. This collaborative effort between vis à vis India and ERCO Germany aimed to position architectural lighting as more than functional—showcasing architectural lighting design as an essential tool for strengthening curatorial narratives, improving visitor experiences, and aiding in artifact preservation.

We demonstrated light's power to tell stories, showing how careful adjustments to brightness and focus can effectively guide visitors (discovery and orientation), manage flow, and direct attention. This included creating visual hierarchies that help weave individual objects into a cohesive exhibition narrative.

A key area was conservation lighting. We emphasized practical methods to minimize light-induced damage by carefully managing light levels, exposure times, and spectral content (especially harmful UV/IR). Alongside this, we highlighted the necessity of luminaire flexibility—using adaptable fixtures with adjustable beams, intensity, and mounting to meet the changing needs of diverse exhibits.

We also addressed the critical importance of visual comfort, showing how controlling glare and managing contrast allows for clear viewing of artifacts without strain. Finally, the use of sustainable tools, like efficient LED technology paired with smart controls (such as DALI or wireless systems), was presented as a core aspect of responsible design, crucial for both environmental considerations and practical museum operations. My role involved explaining how these advanced lighting strategies work together, demonstrating their combined ability to enhance the interpretation of cultural artifacts while ensuring their long-term preservation.