I think seeing light is our the most important sensory input. This book Shining Art on Light discusses what is light and the many sources of light including natural phenomena and as well as the evolution of human’s quest to create, use, and manipulate light. No where is light more important than in art and in photography where the key aspect of how how light is used is what separates the genius from the ordinary. The book does a beautiful job of illustrating the many aspects of light that are captured in art as well as the creative use of light in the best of art. I highly recommend the book as an enlightening experience on light. A minor criticism is that as a science nerd and photographer, I would have liked to see some more detail in some sections such as the aurora and in photography sections.

What an extraordinary idea to write a book on the history of light through its relationship to art and titling it Shining Art on Light, Colorful Insights! Jim Dakin takes us on a trip through history as he explains what light is and its’ effect on art. Making you think outside the box, the book explains how a scientist’s view of light differs from an artist’s view. My favorite section is the one on human invention, where he covers subjects such as controlled fire, oil lamps, windows, optical illusions, candles, and television. I learned something new in each chapter. Another wonderful addition to his book is the list of search terms to use along with the list of annotated references if you desire to learn more knowledge of each subject. Of course, there’s also a complete index. Prepare yourself for a wonderful ride through light’s history as it relates to art. I can see this book being an excellent resource book in high school and college art classes.

This book is a wonderfully understandable definition of light and its influence on art through the ages. It is impeccably researched and annotated and lays out a logical explanation of the science of light and its interconnectedness to works of art. It is a fresh subject to absorb and reflect (see what I did there!) upon. It could serve as an enjoyable reference for educators to employ for targeted science study. It could also be a great gift for students and curious searchers of illumination!

There are many, many books available on art. Similarly, very good texts cover the technical aspect of lighting at all levels of depth. This is the first book I have found that blends the two subjects in a manner that will appeal to all readers that have an interest in both areas regardless of their background in either. It will appeal especially to those intrigued in the conjunction of both art and science. Jim uses a very modular approach that is particularly appealing. The reader can read one of the segments based on a piece of art work, consider how light plays a role in what the artist achieves, and also get a quick peek into a part of the physics of light or a relevant historical slice of lighting science from that period. It moves quickly but you will soon find yourself wanting more. And, that is likely to lead to a curious reader performing further self investigation either on the art work, the physics, or both. It is also an excellent gift for those you know who are inclined to such exploration. The breadth of appeal should be wide….from young folks who are just starting out in either area to those experts in art or science that will clearly enjoy this clever approach!

I’m a friend and colleague of the author, Jim Dakin. I share his career as a lighting technologist and his background as a physicist. But, I don’t share the unique and novel insights that he has shared in this book about the symbiosis between Light and Art. So, virtually every page offered a new learning, perspective, or appreciation of both Art and Light for me. So, who is this book written for? All of us! Unable to deny my reductionist tendencies, I’d segment Jim’s readership into 4 groups: EE, EL, LE, LL – pretty nerdy, right? The EE is an Art Expert and a Lighting Expert – Jim The EL is an Art Expert and a Lighting Learner – some of my friends The LE is an Art Learner and a Lighting Expert – me The LL is an Art Learner and a Lighting Learner – most of my friends Jim has taken great care to provide new connections between Art and Science, and new appreciations for both that resonate for all of us. Being an LE, I can’t help but scrutinize every assertion and insight regarding Light and Science in this book, and having done so I find all of it compelling. With that assurance, I can comfortably assume that the assertions and insights around Art are equally valid. This is how I consume new information. Do I trust the source? If yes, then I learn from what is offered. But in addition to a trustworthy source, Jim has patiently crafted this book in a highly readable style that didn’t bore me as an Expert and didn’t overload me as a Learner. Highly recommended for Experts and Learners, alike.