LUX Autumn 2018

47 Claudia Paz Lighting Studio is a forward-thinking design practice based in Peru, which specialises in lighting design. We spoke to Design & Art Director, Claudia Paz as we look to gain an insight into the success of the firm. Located in Lima, Claudia Paz Lighting Studio operates with a vision of linking art, technology and architecture through light. The company is constantly searching for new technologies to be applied to its projects, and this is why the firm develops projects that combines the use of technology, with the concern for energy efficiency and innovative designs. Boasting a wealth of expertise in a variety of areas, the studio is versatile, adaptable and possesses unique skillsets in terms of creative concepts, lighting design, art direction and product design. Other areas that the company specialised include interactive concept design, multidisciplinary project management, production and fabrication. Claudia starts off the discussion by explaining what qualities make for excellent designs and designers, highlighting the ability to be different, whilst also producing results as being vital in the industry. “Essentially, our constant search to achieve a unique solution for each client integrating architectural lighting design, technology and art, has made our projects to be recognised internationally. As a fundamental principle, we believe that the most important part of lighting design is in the emotions and effects that cause light on people.” Delivering an unrivalled service means staff must be prepared for all matters, including undertaking a new project, or even taking on a new client. Claudia explains what approach the team uses to ensure the best possible outcome. “Across the company, we think the most important part of our design process is the conceptual stage. This is where our lighting design approach begins to have meaning and integrates with the Architects conceptual approach of the building, or the city that our project will be located in.” Setting itself apart from other companies in the industry, Claudia´s passion about light, drive her to use it to create a link between space and people and to allow them to experience an emotional connection. “Here at Claudia Paz Lighting, we constantly explore new and creative ways of interaction within light and architecture or urban landscapes to generate emotion and unforgettable memories in the public. Also, our main goal is to see smiles on children’s faces.” However, there are many other aspects which have seen the firm achieve overwhelming success, and Claudia commented on her most successful project to date, and what have been the most important thing that her team learnt from working on this project. “BCP Affinity is an interactive three-dimensional façade installation on the Banco de Crédito building in Lima, Peru. The team create an iconic public artwork installation, with an interactive facade to directly engage the general public, suggesting new ways of seeing, feeling and experiencing one’s own perception of one`s self. “Our vision was to give people the opportunity to feel free and explore new sensations, creating a permanent installation on urban scale instead of a media façade. The result is an awe-inspiring experience of light, sound, speed and generative architecture that is directly related to one’s own body movements. There is no option but to be playful. One can push aside Rain, ignite explosive Fireworks or touch the Aurora Borealis. Our aim is to breakdown people’s mental barriers, opening them up to participate by exposing them to the creative process.” Ultimately, Claudia is looking forward to what the future holds for the company. In her concluding comments, she hints at growth and expansion for the studio, and with staff brimming with ideas, there is widespread optimism amongst the team that it will succeed. “Looking ahead, at Claudia Paz Lighting Studio, we are working hard to expand our work to other places. We believe that our installations can be in Public spaces around the world, where the idea is to prompt the companies to create public artworks intervention that contributes to the wider urban fabric. Subsequently, it is hoped that such key spaces could become a highlight for the extraordinary, as well as places for social participation. “Lastly, we have so many installations already designed at our studio, along with installations that we wish could be out there soon; including a Digital Butterfly Park; a three-dimensional bridge where the Sun or the Moon get trapped, so many other ideas, which at the moment are still in the paper, thinking one day will be so inspired to see it in real.” Company: Claudia Paz Lighting Studio Contact: Claudia Paz Address: Jr. Jose Sabogal 196, Urb. Los Jazmines - Surco, L33, L33. Lima, Peru Lighting up theWorld Around Us