Marc Brickman made a name for himself as a lighting artist. He gained fame for his spellbinding light shows with global icons like Pink Floyd, Neil Young, and Paul McCartney. Now he has unveiled his newest venture, “20 X 20 X 22”. A collection, showcased on his site and studio, diverges from his iconic light-based works and instead featuring 22 canvases each measuring 20″ X 20″.
The choice of moving from evanescent light displays to more permanent canvases was a conscious one. “Light works are fleeting; they’re there one moment and gone the next. A canvas, on the other hand, allows for a prolonged bond,” shares Brickman. Remarkably, this is the first instance where he’s opened his personal studio to the public.
In a unique approach, most of these pieces are left numbered rather than titled. Brickman explains, “Each individual perceives art based on their unique history and experiences. By not naming my work, I invite viewers to engage, interpret, and even christen them as they see fit. This free-flow of interpretation fuels my creative journey.”
Many will recall Brickman’s trailblazing moment at the Barcelona Olympics where he opted to plunge the stadium into darkness, only to reignite it with a dazzling display of lights. This innovative approach forever transformed lighting design in live events.
Known for his daring nature, Brickman’s latest feat was at the Noor Art Festival of Light in Riyadh. Here, he orchestrated a never-before-seen light show using 2000 drones, synchronized with extended musical sequences, making the entire city an active participant.
Later, as the designated artist-in-residence for The Empire State Building, he gave life to the iconic skyscraper through synchronized light and music, making it “dance” in a way never seen before. This collaboration has been ongoing since 2012, and his influence can be seen in a dedicated section of the Empire State Building’s Experience Museum.
Brickman’s philosophy? “Art doesn’t recognize failure – just exploration, sometimes leading to unexpected outcomes. True creativity hides in these surprises. The only sure way to fail is to never attempt,” he muses.
Whether it’s transforming the night sky of an Olympic stadium, making a historical building dance, or experimenting on canvas, Marc Brickman has contributed greatly to the realm of art. “20 X 20 X 22” proves he is still pushing boundaries today.