Lumonics Light and Sound Gallery has been around for decades, ever since artists Mel and Dorothy Tanner started working with light sculptures and sound to create immersive experiences back in 1969. Dubbed “Lumonics,” the unique art form was conceived to engage multiple senses — primarily sight and sound — simultaneously, providing audiences a deeper connection to the work and the world around it.
link to article
(please note that donations are now through PayPal rather than Spotfund as mentioned in the Westword article)
And then there was this post in LinkedIn by Lou Pizante:
Once upon a time in Miami, two guys walked into a bar—except it was an art gallery and the drinks were replaced with light sculptures. The year was [1972], and for the two guys— Barry Raphael and Marc Billard—this was their first introduction to Mel and Dorothy Tanner. The Tanners believed that light could be more than just something that keeps you from stubbing your toe in the dark—they made psychedelic art experiences where lights and sounds popped, sizzled and sang, practically throw a party for your senses. And so was born a decades-long collaboration: the Lumonics Light and Sound Gallery and the Lumonics School of Light Art.
The Lumonics Legacy Project
“The whole idea behind everything here is to take light and make it into a shape; a shape that not only solidifies the light but the life the light touches . . . “
Barry Raphael and Marc Billard greatly appreciate Noreen Sullivan for her support of the Lumonics Legacy Project.
Here is some info about Noreen:
“As the person who is putting the fundraiser out to the world, I would like to introduce myself. I am Noreen Sullivan. I am a marketer with a background in sociology and cultural studies. I understand the importance of legacy and the history of art. I first became aware of Lumonics through their art show with MEOW WOLF. I have a passion for light art, ever since I was a kid with Litebrite. I was drawn to Barry and Marc and was lucky enough to be introduced through a friend. I volunteered to steer the fundraiser to help with marketing and PR efforts and to use my network to help. I believe this project is important. The history and the ideas are important. Also what the collective represents. This world needs kindness and joy. It is an honor to be able to support this legacy. If you you would like to know more or would like to feature Lumonics or collaborate with us please contact me via LinkedIn or through Lumonics. Thank you for your support.”
About the Lumonics Legacy Project:
The passing of Dorothy Tanner in 2020 and the passing of Barbara Billard in August of 2023 have reduced the number in our art collective from 7 members to 2. As the remaining members, Marc Billard and Barry Raphael, we have been part of this incredible art project since 1972. With the help of our friends and supporters, we are embarking on a new journey: the Lumonics Legacy Project. This endeavor aims to ensure the continuation of Lumonics and preserve the remarkable works created by our founders, Mel and Dorothy Tanner.
Contemporary Projection Art:
In the digital age, Lumonics continues to lead the way in projection art, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality. These advancements push artistic boundaries, creating mesmerizing installations and multimedia performances that redefine the art form.
Impact of Lumonics:
Lumonics art engages multiple senses, offering viewers a deeper connection and prompting reflection on perception and reality. It transforms spaces, fosters community engagement, and explores themes of temporality and existence, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.
Preserving Lumonics Art:
Preserving Lumonics’ legacy is vital to honoring its significant contributions to the development of light and sound as artistic mediums. By ensuring accessibility to future generations, Lumonics continues to inspire and enrich lives, contributing to cultural tourism and economic growth.
Lumonics has made significant contributions to the development of light, sound, and projection as an artistic movement paving the way for immersive experiences. Preserving their works honors their legacy and allows their artistic achievements to be celebrated and studied by future generations of artists and art enthusiasts.
Lumonics has the power to educate, inspire, and enrich the lives of individuals. We want to ensure that these artworks endure and remain accessible to the public, and find inspiration in creative expression.
Lumonics plays a crucial role in attracting tourists and promoting cultural tourism, contributing to the economic growth and cultural vitality of our local community. Lumonics contributes to the identity and sense of place unique to the greater Denver area. However, traveling the world and sharing with a broader community is a long-term goal.
This fundraiser aims to protect and preserve more than 200 light sculptures created by Mel and Dorothy Tanner. The Lumonics archives also include collages, sketchbooks, hand-painted 35-millimeter slides, original projector tray paintings, preserved media articles, photographs, and an expanding library of music visuals; in addition to raising money for creating a sustainable legacy and future, establishing a Friends Of Lumonics non-profit, and ultimately creating partnerships to share this art with the world.
Our first phase is to stabilize our current situation and then work on 100 light sculptures currently in storage to prepare them for public viewing, most needing conversion to LED technology. That will require renting another warehouse until that process is completed.
Phase 2 is placing the collection of 200 light artworks in a new location: an art center that will include a performance space, continuing to present the immersive experiences for students, seniors, and the general public, and organize a group of sculptures for a traveling exhibit.
Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated!
Friends of Lumonics Legacy Project PayPal Link