Presentation

Photochemical damage (fading) and photomechanical damage (structural damage) will be caused by artificial lighting. The best solution for preservation is to refrain from placing art, specifically antiques, under direct light where they are overexposed. Unfortunately, this runs counter to the exhibition missions of museums and galleries. The lighting design of museums and art galleries should not only consider how to provide the best experience to their visitors, but also consider how to maintain the best experience for as long as possible. We hope our next generation will have the opportunity to appreciate the art and history we have now. Therefore, proper “preservation” is also an important factor to consider in lighting design.

In terms of the best representation, a traditional Incandescent light source might be the best choice since the closest spectral shape to the natural light. The colors of the art can be accurately reproduced. However, a large amount of heat will radiate when the light comes out. The heat radiation will accelerate fading of the painting and other colored artifacts. So, incandescent light is actually the worst choice for preservation.

LED lighting technology is the best alternative light source in this respect. LED almost emits zero infrared radiation which is the main reason for generating the heat. Therefore, from the perspective of preservation of art, LED light source will be the best choice.

Conservation

“Saving power, no waste” is also a consideration for the operation of museums and galleries, especially for some non-profit pavilions. Temperature control system may be the largest power consumption for the majority of venues, but the power consumption of lighting shouldn’t be ignored.

In terms of energy saving, LED lighting has many advantages over traditional light sources. First, LED is the most efficient lighting device presently. To achieve the same illumination demands, LED uses less electricity than traditional ones. Second, LED offers longer lifetime compared to traditional light sources. The average lifetime of the LED lighting product in the market can reach 50,000 hours or more. LED can be used for up to 18 years when it was continuously turned on for 8 hours per day, saving electricity and reducing maintenance costs. LED lighting has become the best choice for gallery and museum.