Is a project that emerged in 2013 as a challenge: to create a piece suitable for festivals and light-related events that would take advantage of the city’s light resources without generating additional consumption. Already at that time, we felt that there was a perception that light events were a great waste of energy, something that, with current electricity prices, could be considered unethical.
Project Name: Inhabiting Urban Light
Studio Name: luzinterruptus
Now, in a complex political and social context, this idea makes more sense than ever. We have therefore decided to graphically revise the project, refine it and present it in a more attractive and understandable way.
The approach is simple: to use the light of urban street lamps to transform their light beam into a living space, where people can spend time at night without external energy sources. In this way, instead of adding electricity consumption to the city, we use the resources that are already available in the streets.
The design consists of lightweight cone-shaped metal structures, created from two circumferences joined by rods. These structures, which can vary in size and shape depending on the type of luminaire to be intervened, will be attached directly to the foot of the lampposts located in main streets or squares.
To enclose the structure and create a sheltered environment, they will be covered with white semi-transparent tulle fabric. In this way, the light beam from the lampposts is captured, creating a cosy and comfortable environment that invites citizens to spend time there free of charge and without consuming additional resources. These spaces could also serve as intimate settings for free cultural activities.
Beyond being an energy-free piece in a light event, ‘Inhabiting Urban Light’ addresses a growing problem: energy poverty. This reality affects thousands of people who cannot afford to pay high electricity rates. In a context where having access to light at home has become a luxury for many, this piece seeks to make this social injustice visible while offering a space where urban light becomes the protagonist.
In addition, the project underlines the importance of good lighting in public spaces, which facilitates the lives of citizens by allowing them to be in well-lit streets at night and feel safe. At the same time, it reminds that this is achieved with public money, coming from the taxes of all citizens.
With this piece, we aim not only to create an artistic intervention, but also to raise awareness about energy poverty and to show that it is possible to generate sustainable and community spaces without resorting to high energy consumption, always thinking about the common good.
The piece would be open all day for people to use, and at night, once lit up, it could serve both as an urban shelter and as a stage for cultural activities, such as concerts or small-scale theatre.
In addition, it could include elements such as cushions, chairs and tables to make it more comfortable, or let the neighbours themselves inhabit it and adapt it according to their needs.
