Framed Comfort 1
This work combines soft fabrics with soothing color-changing animated light patterns. Sections of white faux fur and other diffusing materials have been pieced together in a circular design with 8-way symmetry. RGB LED backlighting is aligned behind these regions, and the whole assembly is mounted on a stretched canvas with a wooden frame.
Some of the sewn shapes resemble a carpet of sea anemones, and some of the programmed effects are intended to imitate the colors and wave motion of the ocean.
This is a more complex version of the original Enlighted Comforter, which used a single continuous piece of faux fur as the diffusing layer. This work also has some similarities to the Enlighted Rings series, but instead of sharply defined boundaries made of metal rings, the boundaries of the regions are fuzzy, literally.
Bio
<p>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.</p>
<p>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, <a href="https://enlighted.com/">Enlighted Designs Inc.</a>, 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.</p>
<p>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.</p>