Sustainability is one of the biggest challenges that face designers today. Rising consumption and material use in the Western consumer class compromises the ability of those outside of the consumer class to meet their basic needs. The effects of global warming and environmental pollution are felt worldwide and designers face an enormous challenge in attempting to resolve some of these issues. That said, numerous innovations have evolved from attempts by designers to meet these challenges. There are many approaches that can be taken from repurposing materials to using innovative, energy efficient and biodegradable materials. Recent innovations have seen the development of LED light bulbs for domestic interiors inspired by the successes of compact fluorescent bulbs in recent years as more energy efficient lighting sources.

These innovations have resulted from our need for energy efficient lighting. Lighting however, is more than a means to enable us to function in darkness. Light has the ability to create volume and form, and it can generate an atmosphere or condition that can manipulate mood or trigger emotion. The designed light object can be a fundamental element within an architectural setting, an interior context or a commercial application. With intent and relevance a strong lighting design can subtly or assertively dictate the essence of a space.

In collaboration with Solita Work and Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD) first year Object Design students, Reworks will be hosting a recycled lighting show. The ACAD students will be contributing to the sustainability debate with a selection of lampshades created from upcycled materials. Solita Work is the owner of Reworks. In March, students visited the innovative and original shop full of upcycled products to gain inspiration. Currently the students are designing and creating recycled lighting that Solita and ACAD instructor Kerry Harmer will curate on April 16th and 17th. A selection of lighting designed in this class will be on exhibit in her shop. The opening date of this exhibition is April 18 from 6 pm to 8 pm. If you can’t attend the opening, the lighting will remain on display at the shop until May 9th, 2014.