Have A Word… w/ Bruce Munro
'Light Shower'
Bruce Munro is a leading light artist and designer whose installation work has graced many a place, from the interior of the V&A to the catwalks of Alexander McQueen, and even fields and lakes against the backdrop of the English countryside. Is it art or is it design? From bespoke lighting installations that one calls an artwork to architectural lighting schemes for hotels and commercial spaces that one may call a product, Bruce Munro’s work is a synergy of the two. Beautiful Crime caught up with him to find out more about the magical installations…
How did you get in to lighting design and do you see yourself as more of a designer for clients who need lighting services or as an artist?
I have been interested in light since I was child but I formally began my career in light whilst living in Sydney (1985 ) where I fell into lighting and have not looked back. My aim has always been to end up making pieces from my heart and head. Thankfully this is what I do now.
Field of Light
What have some of the biggest challenges been in your field of work?
An exhibition of eight installations at Longwood Gardens in Philadelphia is my most recent challenge. Two years in the planning, nine weeks to install with the help of many. I love a challenge, so I suspect the installations I am planning now will make Longwood seem like a walk in the park.
And what is the best part about your job?
It sounds cliché and trite but every installation is a journey of experience that starts with an idea and ends with stuff in a space. I enjoy the beginning and the middle; generally by the end of an installation, I am thinking about or already working on a new piece.
How much does a commission of one of your works cost?
As long as a piece of string!
What’s your work ethic and where do you find inspiration?
I am quite driven and believe it’s best to put one’s heart and soul into everything. I am lucky to work with a talented young team who also share this work ethic. Inspiration comes from everywhere and everything.
What artists and designers do you admire / love their work?
Lots, far too many to mention all of them, but some are Damien Hirst, Ingo Maurer, Thomas Heatherwick, James Turrell and Alastair Mackie.
What projects have you got coming up? Anything for London Design Festival?
Exhibition at Waddesdon Manor in the UK. Field of Light in Uluru, Central Australia, an exhibition at Franklin Park Conservatory, an exhibition at Desert Botanical Garden and various private commissions in the USA.
Images by Mark Pickthall
For more information on Bruce Munro, click here.
