To raise consciousness of the lit environment and contribute to our enjoyment of light.

What is the Lighting Detectives?

The Lighting Detectives is a non-profit group dedicated to the study of lighting culture through practical methods, mainly by engaging in fieldwork.  The Lighting Detectives focuses on urban lighting environments - physically going out with our own feet and eyes to observe lighting in actual use instead of relying on theories, ideologies and preconceptions.  We are a group of lighting aficionados who savor experiences with light, whether those created by the hand of a professional or the propitious accidents and adjacencies awaiting discovery by the keen observer.

Brief History

The Lighting Detectives was established in 1990 by Kaoru Mende with individuals working in an architectural lighting design firm in Tokyo, Japan.    After many years of success in Japan, Mr. Mende thought to share the lighting detectives with international friends and colleagues.  Gradually, Mr. Mende met other like-minded lighting enthusiasts from Germany, Sweden, America, Denmark, Brazil, etc.  As international membership expanded, a series of international conferences were organized to share findings, compare notes, and evaluate differences in lighting culture in the daily lives of diverse international cities.  

New York Lighting Detectives

The New York Chapter of the Lighting Detectives was formed in 2004.  Anyone is welcome to participate as we explore lighting culture in New York City.  Visit our events page to see upcoming opportunities to enjoy the New York night.

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