Photo Credit: Derek Porter CLD, IALD, MIES
The symposium, delivered in a hybrid format, successfully engaged both in-person and virtual audiences, with around 80 attendees on-site and between 160 to 190 participants online. The event was priced accessibly ($29 for IES members, free for students), particularly for virtual attendees, to encourage broader participation. Edward noted, "I was trying to get as many students to watch this as possible because these are the folks who are really excited about these ideas...the younger folks are coming into the industry, and they want to really address these issues. They're much more socially conscious than some of the older generation, I believe.” There were several speakers and two panel discussions throughout the day. Below is a snapshot of a few of those discussions: Benje Feehan, architect and executive director of the buildingcommunityWORKSHOP (bcWORKSHOP), spoke about community engagement that stands at the core of their organization. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, bcWORKSHOP started in Dallas, Texas, and has since extended its reach across the state, notably in Brownsville along the Texas-Mexico border, and has even impacted rural communities and several states nationwide. Benje emphasized that engagement within the workshop's practice is far from a superficial gesture; it is a fundamental aspect of their design process, vital for cultivating lasting relationships and a deep commitment to the places they serve. He outlined the importance of self-awareness among practitioners, acknowledging the boundaries of their experiences, especially when working in communities different from where they grew up. In the realm of lighting design, the emphasis often leans heavily towards the creation of light, overlooking the equally critical aspect of darkness. This narrative is being challenged by Kerem 80
designing lighting
Asfuroglu, the visionary founder of Dark Source, an awardwinning UK and Ireland-based lighting design studio that prides itself on its environmental ethos. A distinguished alumnus of the University of Wismar’s Art Lighting Design program, Kerem honed his expertise at Speirs + Major for over seven years before embarking on his journey with Dark Source in 2019. Kerem emphasized his commitment to integrating darkness into lighting design, and his efforts in educating about the nuanced interplay of light and shadow. His portfolio, enriched with projects like the Brennan Outdoor Center and the ecoconscious Cloughjordan Ecovillage in Ireland, underscores his dedication to this cause. Kerem stated, “The significance of darkness in lighting design cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital counterbalance to light, providing spaces where the mind and body can retreat and rejuvenate.” Francesca Bastianini, founding principal of Sighte Studio in Brooklyn, emphasized the value of community involvement in her work, particularly in the award-winning Gowanus Neighborhood project. She believes in creating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also equitable. "We're committed to crafting environments that serve a variety of functions – from outdoor areas like parks and communities to indoor ones like libraries. Our portfolio spans from residential and retail to hospitality sectors, and even includes work in public housing and business districts," she shared. Francesca went on to describe their role as enablers in the design of just and attractive spaces, a mission they are eager to share. She reflected on the parallels between theater production and architecture, noting a shared pursuit of common objectives and collaboration. "The process must be dynamic and adaptable, mirroring the preparation for an opening night in theater. We use a common language and shortcuts in