The right lighting can be life-altering. The best conversations are had when rippling shadows soften our hard, human edges into an amorphous realm of possibilities. Admittedly, red wine can also assist!

Lighting design can also make an incomparable aesthetic statement and act as a focal point around which a room’s furnishings revolve.

Inspiration from Milan 2019

Euroluce, the International Lighting Exhibition which takes place every two years during Milan Design Week, was awash with exquisite pieces this year.

Perhaps none more so than those from Arturo Álvarez, the Spanish designer who has made an international name for himself with his sensitive designs and innovative use of materials.

Álvarez’ installation in Milan was titled ‘Emotional Light’ and it cast a spell over visitors with its ethereal shadows, textures and shapes.

Arturo Álvarez’ ‘Emotional Light’ collection, Milan. Pictured above and top of article. Image: Arturo Álvarez

Using light and shadows to evoke emotion, his creations used feminine forms to reflect on the nature of humankind’s interactions. They are almost other-worldly, elevating lighting into true art.

Melbourne Goes to Milan – Christopher Boots

Melbourne lighting designer Christopher Boots also exhibited in Milan this year, with TROVE – a collaboration with Lost Profile Studio.

TROVE by Christopher Boots and Lost Profile Studio, Milan Design Week 2019

Boots spoke on Australian design at Decor + Design in 2015 ,as part of a panel at the Australian House & Garden Seminar Series. In the last four years his international profile has grown exponentially, bolstered by his unique vision that “explores the architecture and geometry of organic shapes, and is often inspired by forms found in plants, animals and minerals” (Christopher Boots)

His work often references Greek mythology, such as his standout ‘Prometheus’ (pictured in the window above), which appropriately enough helped ignite his career.

While Boots’ work can now be found across the globe, it is all handmade in his Melbourne atelier.

TROVE, Milan. Christopher Boots x Lost Profile Studio

Pauline Tsolos (OUYSE) – 2019 VIVID Winner, Lighting Design

Australian lighting design is going from strength-to-strength, if the 2019 VIVID Design Awards in July were anything to go by. Australia’s longest running competition for emerging designers featured 55 finalists across six categories this year, with some incredibly strong work in the lighting category.

Pauline Tsolos’ took home the top gong, with her (OUYSE)/brass wall sconce. This beautiful piece of functional sculpture inspired by nature impressed the judges with its delicate form.

Pauline Tsolos (OUYSE)

The 17^th edition of the VIVID Design Awards will take place at Decor + Design 2020, 16 – 19 July in Melbourne.

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