The potential of light to shape and transform communities was the focus of an engaging session at this year’s Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.
Experts from across the globe gathered at the THINKLIGHT conference to discuss the role of light art as a tool for community building, exploring how immersive design and innovative lighting technologies can foster social interaction and cultural engagement.
The 18th edition of the event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, concluded today, bringing together thought leaders to share insights on how light influences our environment and experiences. The session titled ‘Commonality: Immersive Design Approaches and Light Art as a Community Builder’ highlighted the power of lighting not just as an aesthetic element, but as a force that connects people and strengthens community bonds.
Panelists discussed how lighting installations in public spaces, such as light festivals, art installations, and immersive exhibitions, create shared experiences that bring residents together. These lighting innovations not only enhance the appeal of neighbourhoods but also stimulate local economies and cultivate a sense of pride among community members.
Frankie Boyle, Creative Director of Frankie Boyle Studio, emphasised the universal language of light, stating, “Light affects us all biologically and psychologically. It influences our emotions, how we move through spaces, and how we interact with our surroundings. It is a language everyone speaks, often without realising it.”
Boyle, a leading advocate of neuroaesthetics, spoke about the calming effects of lighting designs inspired by natural forms, such as trees or clouds. Her globally acclaimed public art piece, *The Living Lantern*, showcases how light art can not only bring beauty to a space but also evoke a sense of connection and relaxation within a community.
Sarvdeep Singh Basur, Principal at Lucent Worldwide, shared insights on the power of immersive lighting to engage the subconscious mind. He discussed a project currently under development in the Himalayas, where light and sound will be used to create a meditative experience for visitors at a temple situated 3,500 metres above sea level.
The conference also highlighted innovative student designs from the University of Sharjah. Students from the university’s Lighting Design for Interiors course have created luminaries that celebrate Emirati heritage, incorporating elements such as pearl diving, Al Sadu weaving, Islamic patterns, and sustainability. The designs creatively use materials like palm leaves to tell the story of the UAE’s rich cultural traditions.
Today’s closing session of THINKLIGHT will feature a keynote from Konstantin Klaas, Director at Licht Kunst Licht in Berlin, followed by a discussion on the role of lighting in transforming iconic buildings into landmarks of identity. The final panel, moderated by Andrea Hartranft, Principal at Hartranft Lighting Design, will explore the importance of attention to detail in lighting design, illustrating how small touches can elevate a space and shape our emotional response to it.
The Light + Intelligent Building Middle East exhibition, co-located with Intersec, is the largest trade fair for the building services sector in the MENA region. The event is part of the international Light + Building brand and will focus on the theme ‘Building Commonality Through Community, Creativity and Culture’ in its 2025 edition.
The exhibition covers a wide range of sectors, including technical lighting, decorative lighting, architectural lighting, electrical engineering, and smart home and building automation.
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