The Power of Light: A Conversation with Illuminate's Founder Ben Davis

3092 16th Street,San Francisco CA 94103

03 March, 2022

Description

Join us at Manny's for a thoughtful discussion on incorporating the art of light into our public spaces. Ben Davis, the man responsible for the Bay Bridge lights, the Pink Triangle on Twin Peaks, the dazzling "Photosynthesis" at the Conservatory of Flowers, and so much more is coming to Manny's to discuss the power of light, the stories behind some of his most famous installation, and a sneak peak on some upcoming dream projects. What does it mean to use light as a medium for art? How does he bring such power to lighting up the city? Can the art of light bring us together? Where else can we incorporate light into our public spaces around San Francisco? Join us for a discussion on the power and art of light that is currently across our beautiful town. The structure of this event will be about 45 minutes of discussion with Ben Davis followed by a Q&A session where YOU can ask a question. We hope to help solicit a more collaborative discussion and hear the diverse stories in our city. Manny's never turns away anyone for lack of funds. To receive a complimentary ticket just email the word "grapefruit" and the title of this event [email protected]. This event will be in person at Manny's but there will also be a Zoom link ticket for those who'd like to tune in digitally from the comfort of their home. Please note that this event will be recorded. In-person attendees MUST provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Go to https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/ to acquire a digital vaccine record. About Ben Davis: Ben Davis is the visionary behind The Bay Lights, asking in September 2010, “What if the Bay Bridge were a canvas of light?” Two-and-a-half years later, after teaming with internationally renown artist Leo Villareal, a vast and passionate community had come together to fully permit, design, install, fund and celebrate an historic, transformative moment—the March 5, 2013 grand lighting of the world’s largest LED light sculpture. For more than a quarter century, Ben has led communications on civic mega projects and matters of public safety, public health, public transit, the environment, urban revitalization and public art. He cut his teeth working as the manager of public information on the $4B Boston Harbor Cleanup project. Upon moving to San Francisco in 1994, Ben founded the creative agency Words Pictures Ideas with the mantra of “Do Good. Have Fun. Learn.” A recipient of two international Webby Awards for best website in government, Ben has helped name, brand and communicate about infrastructure projects totaling more than $15B in civic investment, including developing the names and visual identities of The Bay Bridge Seismic Safety Projects, Transbay Transit Center and Presidio Parkway. He has edited and published Everything Indicates: Bay Bridge Poems & Portraits,. He is the artist behind Pi In The Sky, a featured work of the 2012 ZERO1 Art & Technology International Biennial and SXSW 2014.