Light and Colour in Daily Life

Abstract

The paper makes a general review of lighting conditions to-day and points out the need for a greater diversity in lighting levels and brightness, in direction, and in colour. Much valuable information of an analytical nature has been revealed by academic studies made during recent years, but it is proposed that a parallel approach should be made along practical lines, guided by observation and imagination.

It is suggested that useful lessons can be learnt from the lighting techniques used in the theatre to produce visually interesting scenes, as these techniques can make an important contribution to experimental methods, particularly in providing variation of lighting levels and colour.

Some observations are made on the economics of artificial light, and it is shown that unduly large costs are involved in providing control over the distribution of light; such control could be simpler and less costly.

Finally, an examination is made of the reaction of the general public to the wider choice of light sources now available, and a plea is made for a more adventurous use of coloured light.