In recent years, architects, artists, and academics have begun implementing concepts of a new philosophical movement, Object-Oriented Ontology (OOO), into their thinking. Referencing work by Prof. Graham Harman, founder of OOO, this program explores why lighting design must engage in philosophical conversations and how designers are uniquely situated to lead that charge. Attendees will learn introductory OOO terms and review several case studies to recognize the inherent relationship between architecture, light, and philosophy. Key design topics include understanding the importance of abstraction and exploring tools to effectively develop concepts including metaphor, sketching, and AI. The goal is to expand our contemporary understanding of light; if light is an object itself, we ought to explore how this may challenge our assumptions and approach to design.

Reinhardt Swart, IALD, LC is an associate lighting and computational designer at SmithGroup in Denver, adjunct professor, and artist. Graduating from The Pennsylvania State University with an integrated BAE/MAE, his interest in theory, art, environmental analytics, and computation has notably influenced his practice. During his nearly ten years of professional experience, he has received notable lighting awards including the AEI Professional Award of Excellence for GM Flint Factory One and the IES Award of Merit for the Zeiss Michigan Quality Excellence Center. Reinhardt served on SmithGroup’s Board Advisory Council on the topic of integrated design and has given industry lectures on advanced daylighting and the philosophy of lighting design. He has recently completed his Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, exploring graph theory and discrete combinatorial modeling to automate low-income modular housing solutions.