The IALD (International Association of Lighting Designers) has involved some of the UK's most celebrated lighting designers who, together with leading manufacturers which include Martin Architectural are realising these projects.
Martin Architectural is lighting HMS Belfast and showcasing its new Exterior 1200 Washes which are lighting the side of the ship. Twelve Exterior 600s have been installed in the main guns to produce the effect of the guns shooting, and a further four Exterior 200's have been placed in the smaller guns for the same effect. Four Exterior 600's have been placed on the masts as uplighters and a further 16 Exterior 600's have been installed in various areas around the ship. There is also a MAC 2000 Profile in the dome acting as a searchlight. An Atomic Strobe and Hazer 24/7 have been added to create further atmosphere and effects.
As well as HMS Belfast, a number of other iconic landmarks in the area including The Tower of London and City Hall are being temporarily and spectacularly lit from 4pm-12pm every night. Celebrating the future of lighting in an urban environment, Switched On London aims to raise the awareness of light and re-address the opinion that exterior lighting always leads to wasted energy and light pollution.
The Pool of London Partnership and The ARC Show are the major sponsors of the festival which coincides with the ARC Show, a business event for architectural, retail and commercial lighting, which takes place in the Business Design Centre February 12-13.
(Jim Evans)
