The International Day of Light celebrates the role light plays in science, culture and art, education, and sustainable development, and in fields as diverse as medicine, communications, and energy. It takes place on the 16th May each year, the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960.
Our recent speaker Shelley James has been working with Megan Grace-Hughes and the team at London Light to bring together all the different communities who share a passion for light – more vital than ever through this long winter of lock-down. This year, they are hosting three linked projects.
1/ Light relay
The first is inspired by the ancient tradition of communicating by lighting beacons on high ground. You are invited to be part of a global zoom call to follow the sun across the globe. Participants will be asked to direct their laptop or webcam out of their window or in their workspace to share the shifting light through the day. This will take place on the 16th of May and live streamed so you can follow along. A recording will be accelerated and set to music. The final film will be shared with participants and through social media channels.
2/ Share the light you love
A call to celebrate a moment of light with a brief video clip. Post to instagram and other social media platforms. Submission details on the London Light website.
3/ Panel debate – building bridges with light 20th May, 4pm GMT
A team of lighting experts from different fields will review your submissions and choose their favourites. This will be the starting point for a panel debate about the shared language of light. The panel includes lighting designer and founder of Spiers and Major, Mark Major, Theatre lighting designer and visual storyteller Paule Constable, Creative Director of Dulux and colour expert Marianne Shilllingford, Physicist Dr James Millen and Founder of the Commission for Dark Skies, Professor Bob Mizon MBE.