Light profoundly impacts our neurological and biological systems through its connection to our evolutionary history. Our brains are fundamentally programmed to respond to moving, dynamic light sources - which is why we're instinctively transfixed by a candle flame. Artificial light, by contrast, has only existed for 180 years, which is essentially nothing in evolutionary time. This means static white lights do little to support our relaxation or psychological connectivity. We speak with Frankie Boyle, light artist extraordinaire who fuses physics, psychology, neuroscience and art.
Biophilia - photo by John Procario at Canary Wharf, Frankie Boyle Studio
Frankie’s work is beautiful, a manifestation of the fusion of biophilia and creativity. I love the gorgeous fluidity, the colours, the dance of light and dark, for me experiencing her installations even through the screen feels like you are walking into a song.
As Frankie explains, humans have been interacting with light for 4 billion years, primarily through natural sources like sunlight and fire.
Biophilia - photo by Stephen Conway, Frankie Boyle Studio
From a neurological perspective, light triggers specific responses in our nervous system that are deeply rooted in survival mechanisms. Our brains are programmed to detect movement because it signals potential hunting opportunities or threats. Different colours and light intensities activate different neurological responses - for instance, vibrant blues are energising and motivating, while sunset tones with yellows and oranges signal relaxation and the end of the day. These light interactions influence our brain's energy allocation. If we design lighting intentionally, we can help encourage the neural resources of anyone experiencing the space to focus on specific tasks, ultimately improving their cognitive performance and emotional well-being.
Some key take-aways
There are many highlights from our conversation, but here are some key pointers she shares with us. In designing spaces with light, prioritise mimicking natural light patterns by using dynamic, moving sources that change throughout the day, avoiding static, bright white overhead lighting. Focus on colour and intensity, utilizing blue tones for energizing spaces and warm yellows and oranges for relaxation, always matching light colours to the intended mood and function of the environment. The goal is to create lighting that reflects our natural circadian rhythms and supports our biological needs.
The Diamonds of Tiffany - photo by Frankie Boyle, Frankie Boyle Studio
Texture, movement, and sensory experience are crucial in light design. Integrate materials that interact beautifully with light, like wool, and create subtle, gentle light movements that highlight natural surfaces and create immersive experiences. Approach light design as a collaborative and experimental process, working with experts from different disciplines and being open to unexpected ideas. Remember that light is not just functional, but a powerful tool for storytelling, evoking emotions, and creating spaces that connect deeply with our psychological and biological responses.
Frankie transforms light from a simple functional element into a profound medium of emotional and psychological connection. When asked how she would paint the world with a magic brush of biophilia, Boyle's vision was wonderfully radical: a world without white walls and straight lines, replaced instead by spaces that invite play, exploration, and connection - environments with trees to climb, slides to descend, and cocoon-like spaces that nurture our innate need for sensory engagement.
Field of Hearts - photo by Frankie Boyle, Frankie Boyle Studio
As our conversation reveals, the future of design lies not in rigid structures and static spaces, but in dynamic, playful experiences that honour our biological heritage. Frankie’s approach challenges us to break free from conventional thinking, to embrace creativity, and to understand that truly innovative design speaks to our deepest neurological rhythms.
To find out more about Frankie Boyle’s work, visit her website and maybe sign up to her newsletter to be the first to know about her new installations and work: https://www.frankieboylestudio.com
https://www.instagram.com/frankie_boyle_studio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@frankieboylestudio
Frankie has written an article in our Biophilic Design and Light edition of The Journal of Biophilic Design. Read it here.
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