LIGHT-BOX

The data collected and visualised through graphs was then futher conceptualised into an abstract artefact.

With the project centred around the study of light distribution, the idea of crafting an artefact with light manifested into an abstract lightbox.

THE MAKING OF LIGHT-BOX

Process 1 / 5: Materials

IKEA Shadow Box Black Frame, Transparancy Sheets, Translucent Sheets, 4mm thick Grey Boards and Light Source.
Process 1 / 5: Materials
Both the mini torch and fairy lights were tested to see which would produce the best illumination given the short depth.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

Data graphs were translated into abstract gradients and printed onto transparancy sheets. Each sheet represented each country, with each layer combining with the layer before it, resulting in a more opaque bottom and see-through top.
Process 2 / 5: Layers
The final overlaid layers resulted in an abstract representation of how a higher GDP earning country produces more light (light passes - brighter), while a low GDP earning country suffers from poor lighting conditions (light blocked - darker).

Process 2 / 5: Layers

The sheets were then mounted on individual frames. This provided both structural support for the thin transparencies as well as a layer of gap inbetween each transparancy.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

Each framed layer runs 20mm wide all around. This will result in a cleaner finish when all the layers are on top of each other, creating a uniformed frame around.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

Mounted layers.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

Mounted Layers.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

Once the layers were ready for assembly, I had to prepare a translucent layer seperating the light source from the layers so that it helps to diffuse the light evenly.

Process 2 / 5: Layers

I had to do some experimenting as I was unsure of how many layers I needed for the light diffusion. I tested with both one sheet of tracing paper and two sheets.

Process 3 / 5: Shadow Box

The layers had to be then held in position, preventing them from collasping on the light source.

Process 3 / 5: Shadow Box

This had to be done by customising a structure that goes around the perimeter to hold the layers up.

Process 4 / 5: Light

Unsure of which type of light source to use, I had to play around with a few options to eventually achieve a favourable result. The mini torch option resulted in a strong light spot as it is larger in size compared to the fairylights.

Process 4 / 5: Light

Unfavourable light spot resulted from light source being too large, thus too close to the layers.

Process 5 / 5: Assembly

The fairylights were preferred as they created an evenly-lit final product with their small and spaced out light sources. Each fairylight LED was laid carefully to illuminate the layers but not create light spotting.
Once everything was ready to go, each transparancy layer was carefully laid over one another in the correct sequence. The back cover with the light source attached would seal and complete the light box artefact.