Campfire Light Installation | 2019-2021

Designers: Wendy Evans Joseph, Jose Luis Vidalon, and Shuo Yang Studio Joseph, New York, New York, USA
Manufacturer: Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota, USA

Carleton College is a collaborative community that encourages curiosity and intellectual adventure of the highest quality. With a student body of 2000, it is a place where everyone knows each other, and intimate meetups are central to the academic and social experience. The enclosure of a courtyard between two science buildings created an opportunity for a light installation. Campfire is experienced from inside and from the central lawn. Campfire is located at the west entry to the atrium. It is the visual and spiritual focal point for the space. Campfire is the soul of the building with its ability to inspire discourse and open conversation.

The installation is comprised of 80 acrylic tubes, 4 inches in diameter and 6 feet in length, hung with slender, powered cables in two overlapping tiers. The tubes are evenly spaced within an eight-foot square perimeter. Each tube is lit by a ring of embedded LEDs that drive the light through the tube, illuminating bands of lacquer that are organized in random patterns. There are eight different patterns of 1,2, 3, and 4-inch strips. The tubes are sealed, but the bottom ring holds the light. The LEDs are programmed to have a series of preset color displays as well as a dynamic mode that changes the light tone and color subtly slowly over a period of time. The technology allows for both ethereal variations of white light from cool to warm in addition to the full spectrum of colors.

Carleton’s theatrical studies department will work with this bespoke system so that over time, three can be special performances, celebrations, or just quiet moments of reflection. Students gather beneath Campfire on comfy chairs for conversation, study groups, and informal seminars, but mostly, it’s a place for play to enjoy the effects of the light. Campfire fosters storytelling, making and enjoying friendships.