Electrifying Design: A Century of Lighting

An unprecedented survey of modern lighting design foregrounding its materials, innovators, and far-reaching influence

Offering the first comprehensive history of lighting design from the 20th and 21st centuries, Electrifying Design: A Century of Lighting explores how lighting has been integral to the development of modern design both in terms of aesthetics and technological advances. This fascinating book outlines the key aspects of lighting as a unique and creative artistic discipline and examines themes such as different typologies, the quality of light, and the evolution of the bulb. A series of essays by Sarah Schleuning and Cindi Strauss showcase lighting designs from different time periods and geographic locations and feature the work of significant figures, including Poul Henningsen, Ingo Maurer, and Gino Sarfatti. With over 130 illustrations of functional and sometimes fantastical designs, a historical timeline, and comprehensive artist biographies, this handsome volume expands our understanding of an understudied but influential art form and demonstrates lighting’s central role as both an expression of and a catalyst for innovations in modern and contemporary design.

Published in association with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Exhibition Schedule:

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
(February 21–May 16, 2021)

High Museum of Art, Atlanta
(July 2–September 26, 2021) 

Sarah Schleuning is the Margot B. Perot Senior Curator of Decorative Arts and Design at the Dallas Museum of Art. Cindi Strauss is the Sara and Bill Morgan Curator of Decorative Arts, Craft, and Design at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.