SF Lighting [S. Worthen

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Ever since I read the weekly Time Out "what's on in London" email last week, I've been pondering this: what is science fictional lighting? Perhaps those of you who saw the Henry Moore sculpture installation at Kew can help, for here is the context: "Henry Moore at Kew Gardens: Last chance to see these sprawling sculptures. Go at night and catch them lit-up sci-fi style".

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There are 5 comments on this entry. (Reply.)

Clearly there is a flying saucer hovering over Kew, illuminating the sculptures with its laser beams.

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Given they type of Sci-fi you get out of England compared to what comes out of the States.. I think that the answer you're seeking may be highly qualified.

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I didn't see it, but here's my professional opinion on the subject!

Sci-fi lighting comes in two basic kinds.

1) Lighting for people who hear 'sci-fi' and think of Star Trek or the X-Files. Lots of eerie greens and blues, discrete bright patches and a lot of dark background, dry ice to make sure you get solid RAYS. And the enthusiastic use of expensive shiny technology they've barely heard of. Don't forget to hit that strobe, and put swirly gobos into your moving lights.

2) Lighting for people who like their future grim and gritty. Lots of open white pointed at not-particularly-clean concrete or technical-looking pipework, a basically gloomy and atmospheric feel to things, and the use of retro tech wherever possible - OHPs, water gobos, and improvised reflectors.

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