In 1986, Don Seiden, an Art Therapy Professor at the Art Institute of Chicago, had high respect for Marlene Krueger to pursue her lifelong aspiration. Marlene had always envisioned a future where at-risk individuals would engage in a simple gesture with light. This innovative approach sought to assist at-risk individuals in externalizing overwhelming emotions, processing trauma in a secure and non-threatening environment, and enhancing their self-assurance.
The Development of a Prototype
“Throughout my life, I’ve had an aspiration to develop a device that harnesses the therapeutic properties of light.”Growing up in a ranch as an inquisitive child, I cherished the freedom and curiosity of the outdoors. One day, I walked along a stream gracefully meandering through rows of translucent sweet peas. The peas had fallen to the ground, where the water cascaded. I observed in awe as the light illuminated the peas and the stream, undergoing a transformation with each passing second as the water flowed and the wet pea pods glistened. These captivating stream of light instilled a profound sense of fulfillment within me. As I picked up one of the translucent pea pods and bent it, a beam of light directed towards me. I felt its gentle flow through my being. A profound connection to nature enveloped me, and the pain I was experiencing seemed to dissipate. Since that moment, I have been driven by an unwavering desire to recreate that enchanting experience.”
Light Therapy
Light therapy involves using light with a touch of a hand. There’s a sense of joy that ease anxiety and help the nervous system. According to one student, “watching light in motion is a wonderful way for anyone to express overwhelming feelings, boost their confidence, and work through trauma without having to talk about it. It’s a safe and non-threatening way to get treatment”.
Projecting With Light
A collaborative experience where students watch light patterns that shines through a light device. Eight students carefully placed their iridescent work in the central device, that create light with motion.
A Universal Language of Light and Motion
The atmosphere in my rooms were always filled with life. The students could be seen brimming with light whenever I enter the room. To me this project has a universal language of light and motion, sharing auditory, and narrative elements to establish connections.
The therapy acts as a mirror to our internal human state, that involves empathy, triggering dopamine-driven pleasure, that provide a type of non-evasive way of healing from complex issues, with emotions such as sorrow and fear
