Janet Hansen is an LED artist based in Encinitas, California. Her illuminated works feature vibrant geometric patterns with mesmerizing color-changing effects, and are built with a variety of structural and diffusing materials that usually include textiles.
Janet’s interdisciplinary approach reflects her life-long interest in merging art with technology. She earned a BS in Engineering at Harvey Mudd College while minoring in Art, and earned MS and PhD degrees in Applied Mechanics/Bioengineering at UC San Diego. She worked in the aerospace industry for several years before discovering her passion for wearable technology and founding a lighted clothing company, Enlighted Designs Inc., in 2000. The wearable forms of her work are used by a diverse collection of international clients, including professional musicians, dancers, Broadway shows, and theme parks.
Using the same custom hardware, software, and installation techniques she developed for lights in wearables, she creates illuminated wall hangings and soft sculptures, as well as larger installations. As LEDs and related technologies evolve, she continues to incorporate new features in her designs. Many of her pieces are sound reactive, and can be controlled and synchronized wirelessly.