Under The Bushel
Under The Bushel is an interactive light installation that plays with the absorption and reflection of coloured light, and the transformative effect light and colour has in a dark space.
​
Rock-like ceramic forms sit on the ground, attached to simple rope pulleys in an unlit space. As they are raised, the solid-looking rocks transform into colourful, empty bowls (bushels), their hollow interiors exposed. They each release a glow of coloured light reflected from the inside of the bushel onto the shiny white floor. Then as the forms are raised higher, the full white light is released into the space so it is brightly and warmly lit. The forms create shadows until they reach the top and their brightly coloured interiors decorate the ceiling, contrasting to their solid presence on the ground.
The work brings to life the proverb ‘don’t hide your light under a bushel’ illustrating the transformative effect of sharing hidden talents. The transformation rests in the hands of the viewers and the level of light they wish to contribute. The space is at its brightest only when every member of a full room of viewers contributes fully to releasing the light.
Under The Bushel was installed as part of the LUX light festival in Wellington, New Zealand in 2017. LUX is a free public light festival that turns Wellington’s waterfront and laneways into a captivating celebration of light, art, technology and design. The festival showcases a fantastical array of light sculptures that wind their way through an urban light trail within the city’s laneways and then spill out into a promenade of light installations along the waterfront. These are accompanied by artist talks from national and international artists, designers, and researchers; pop up exhibitions and installations; and fun free activities.
​
Thank you to the following supporters of Under the Bushel:
LUX -Their support and sponsorship turned plans into a reality and brought the project to the public.
PlaceMakers Evans Bay -A key sponsor of this installation and a pleasure to work with. They were not thrown by an artist's way of thinking and were always happy to help find something that would work.
Switch Lighting -Supplied excellent advice and quality lights which made this project LUX worthy.
Wellington Potters' Association -The completion of the ceramics would not have been possible without the support, advice and patience of members at the WPA. Extra special thanks to the kiln team and Vivian Rodriguez.
Qun Zhang -Architecture consultant, ceramic assistant and hand model. Thank you for all your support in all areas.
The Stanton Family -Thank you for your ongoing support and spare hands.
​
Under the Bushel was made possible by sponsorship from:
​
