I chose aesthetics in lighting because it is a field that encompasses both technical and creative aspects of lighting design and has various practical applications in different settings. It can be used to create a specific atmosphere, enhance the functionality of a space, and bring out the best of architectural features while being sustainable. Aesthetics in lighting is a field that has been developed over time, with its roots tracing back to the earliest days of human civilization. The use of light in architecture can be traced back to ancient times, when architects and builders used natural light sources such as the sun and fire to illuminate their structures.

As technology advanced, so did the possibilities for lighting design, and by the 19th century, with the invention of electric lighting, lighting design as a field started to take shape. One of the early pioneers in the field of lighting design was French architect, Eugene-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc, who in the 19th century, advocated for the use of light as a design element in architecture. He believed that light should be used to reveal the beauty of architectural forms and to create a sense of atmosphere in a space. His ideas greatly influenced the work of other architects and designers of the time, such as Louis Comfort Tiffany and Louis Sullivan. In the 20th century, the field of lighting design continued to evolve, with the development of new technologies such as fluorescent lighting, halogen lighting, and LED. These new technologies allowed for more efficient and versatile lighting design, making it possible to create more dynamic and visually striking environments.

One of the big players in the field of lighting design in the 20th century was the American architect, Louis Kahn, who was known for his use of natural light in his architectural designs. He believed that natural light was essential to the experience of a space, and he incorporated skylights, clerestories, and other light-admitting elements into his designs to bring the beauty of natural light into the interior spaces of his buildings.

In recent years, the field of lighting design has been greatly influenced by advances in technology, particularly with the development of smart lighting systems and controls. These new technologies allow lighting to be programmed to change with the time of day or to respond to the presence of people and other environmental factors, making it possible to create more dynamic and responsive environments.

The aesthetics of lighting has also been influenced by the field of sustainability, and many lighting designers are now using energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED, to reduce energy consumption and minimize the environmental impact of lighting design.

In conclusion, the field of aesthetics in lighting has evolved over time, with its roots tracing back to the earliest days of human civilization. Pioneers such as Eugene-Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc and Louis Kahn have greatly influenced the field, and with the development of new technologies, lighting design has become more efficient and versatile, making it possible to create more dynamic and visually striking environments. Today, lighting design continues to evolve, with the use of smart lighting systems and energy-efficient lighting solutions, and it continues to play a crucial role in shaping the mood, atmosphere, and ambiance of a space.

Citations :-

1. Architect Emmanuel-Viollet-le-Duc – https://www.britannica.com/biography/Eugene-Emmanuel-Viollet-le-Duc
2. Architect Louis Kahn – https://usa.flos.com/blog/spotlight-on-louis-kahn-architect-in-light
3. Artist Grimanesa Amorós – https://www.alconlighting.com/blog/home/led-innovations-art-top-artists-use-light-medium/
4. Artist Anthony James – https://www.designboom.com/art/anthony-james-portal-icosahedron-led-sculpture-11-21-2019/