In Physics there is a paradox when discussing the weight of light. Light, which is composed of protons, has no mass and can’t weigh anything. However, Albert Einstein taught us that light carries momentum in the form of energy. His equation, E = mc2, revealed that mass and energy are different forms of the same thing.

Throughout history artists have studied, implemented, and incorporated light in their artwork. Caravaggio used the chiaroscuro technique, transfixing subjects in bright shafts of light and darkening shadows. This technique created such a dramatic effect that the viewer was immersed into the visceral visual weight of his subject. Leonardo da Vinci had a more methodical and scientific relationship with light. He studied and observed optics and astronomy to understand light, while considering a “realization of the eye’s propensity for deception”. He stated that “no substance can be comprehended without light and shade” and that, “light and shade are caused by light!” Da Vinci’s persistence led to some of the most elaborate and accurate portrayals of reflection, shadow, and luminescence to this day. Other artists were more obsessed with the changing effects of light. Claude Monet painted the same landscape at varies hours of the day to capture how light shapes, forms, and shifts subjects. Unlike Caravaggio and da Vinci, Monet’s paintings portray light as energy. Light's momentum defines the landscape. 

As a tool, light creates form, emotion, momentum, balance, and accuracy. Light elicits dramatic movement, allows sparse space, or achieves illustrative accuracy. Light is integral in the elements of color, saturation, hue, and contrast. For many artists, their artistic process is rooted in the understanding of light and the use of light to create weight. Whether that be a visual weight that is composed to attract the viewer’s eye, or an intrinsic weight that contributes to the viewer’s experience, the interpretation of Light/Weight in art is a fascinating interaction. The weight of art is energy.

For Joshua Hogan’s upcoming 2023 exhibit at BoxHeart Gallery, he wanted to include artwork by artists that not only inspire him but also have unique interpretations of light and weight in their art. He’s honored to exhibit his paintings alongside artwork by Mary Barensfeld, Clara Fialho, Stephanie Martin, and Belgin Yücelen. Don’t miss Light Weight, March 8th through April 14th, 2023!