when buildings weep
When Buildings Weep is an immersive lighting installation that reframes New York City’s ubiquitous sidewalk scaffolding, also known as sidewalk sheds, as emotional and political spaces. Using reactive lighting to evoke grief, greed, and rage, the project asks us to consider what buildings might feel, and what systems keep their suffering hidden in plain sight.
Activities
As pedestrians pass beneath each scene, motion sensors activate color and intensity shifts in the light. “Billions” glows orange when walked under, revealing the financial infrastructure, literally and metaphorically, beneath these structures. “So Sad” casts a dim blue light in response to foot traffic, suggesting the buildings themselves are weeping from long-term neglect. “Revenge” strikes back with a harsh orange flare at ground level, embodying the fury of buildings seeking justice against negligent landlords These scenes are not just aesthetic, they are emotional systems, brought to life by your presence.
Research ⭑ Concept Development ⭑ Visual Design ⭑ Lighting Design ⭑ 3D Modeling & Rendering ⭑
Research ⭑ Concept Development ⭑ Visual Design ⭑ Lighting Design ⭑ 3D Modeling & Rendering ⭑
Flip through the full project deck below to explore my process, research, and development.
