Every project matters; it’s not the size that counts, but the project itself: it could be a store, a museum, an airport, an urban building, a skyscraper in Moscow, or a piece of infrastructure.
Simone Polenta, Engineer
On November 7, 2019, the lecture “Digital Technology for Lighting Artworks from the Past” was held in the Pocitos Campus Auditorium, featuring lighting experts from iGuzzini: Carlo Ercoli and Simone Polenta, M.Sc.
During the event, Mr. Polenta—a specialist in product application training for that company—spoke about the implementation of new LED (light-emitting diode) technology systems for building lighting. These new methods make it possible to fulfill one of architects’ dreams: to illuminate a space without the light source being visible.
He also highlighted technology, beauty, openness, humanity, and integrity as values that set them apart from their competitors and have enabled them to endure and evolve over time.
Light brings art to life
New advances in lighting technology and lighting design have allowed works of art and art exhibition spaces to take on new significance. In the past, light was used simply to make the architecture visible; today, however, lighting guides the viewer’s gaze and highlights the most important elements of the artwork.
In lighting projects for historic and heritage buildings, lighting is integrated with historical, cultural, social, and, in some cases, religious themes. Therefore, the designer must be involved in all the disciplines that contribute to the project.
Lighting Up Venice
During the conference, attention was drawn to the light installation at the Scuola Grande di San Roque, located in Venice’s historic center. This Renaissance-style building, constructed in 1478, houses several canvases and ceiling paintings by Jacopo Comin, known as Tintoretto.
Under the motto “a light to illuminate, see, and feel,” the design focused on achieving lighting and shadow effects similar to those the artist uses in his paintings. To this end, specific lamp colors were used, and different types of lighting fixtures were employed to highlight architectural, sculptural, and pictorial elements.
The company showcased lighting fixtures and lamps they have designed to meet the needs of the building and the projects taking place within it. They also discussed how digital technology allows them to control the intensity, color, and amount of light via mobile devices. The design includes a mobile app that puts the technology and lighting controls within reach of all users.