Week 2: Inspiration

Detail of Ceiling. Ace Theatre, Hollywood, CA.

Panoramic detail of ceiling. Ace Theatre, Hollywood, CA.

What is it that we find so inspiring about light? I have been asking myself that question for as long as I can remember. Perhaps it is that light is such a perceptible yet untouchable form, that we can feel at times enveloped by its presence. I was at a show in LA this weekend at the Ace Theatre in downtown, where the extraordinary romanesque and gothic inspired architecture of the venue is brought to life and made whimsical or mysterious by even the most simple set up of lights. When I am in venues such as this (of which there are many in downtown LA and Hollywood) I always look up, because the ceiling often has a story to tell that is entirely different from the one unfolding on stage. The expansive ceiling and surrounding proscenium in the Ace Theatre was lit by LED tape and LEKOs, with a set up that was uncomplicated and straightforward. But even this simple configuration, with its clear paths and patches of multicolored light, provided an environment that made me feel inspired and excited; through this I was immersed into the architecture of the building and the music I was hearing. It enclosed the space around me, while multicolored lights concealed corners and crevices in shadow, leaving pockets of space shrouded in pulsing mystery. It didn't take extra fancy effects or equipment to create an environment that was inspired by joy, playfulness and beauty — it just took some creativity and light.