News.
An Immersive Experience
In the new exhibition by German-American artist Kerstin Brätsch, light is not just a technical feature – it is part of the artwork. In a collaboration between MUNCH and Light Bureau, lighting design, programming, and spatial atmosphere all play a vital role in enhancing the art.
Arve Olsen has worked as a lighting designer for over 15 years. At MUNCH, he has contributed to several projects, and for this exhibition, he was responsible for the design, installation, and programming, working with a specialized team.
“This is a contemporary art exhibition, quite different from MUNCH’s own works. We wanted to create a space that feels both modern and alive,” he explains.
The artist herself was present throughout the installation, allowing for extra collaboration and creativity: “It is unique to work this closely together. We were able to test, adjust, and build on each other’s ideas along the way,” says Olsen.
Arve Olsen, Design Director at Light Bureau, part of AFRY
Why Light Matters
Thoughtful lighting design not only improves how art is seen – it creates atmosphere, direction, rhythm, and focus. It affects how the audience moves through the space and how they experience the works, both emotionally and physically.
In 2023 and 2024, MUNCH welcomed an average of 717,914 visitors per year, and light plays a key role in creating memorable experiences and communicating art in a way that resonates with a broad audience.
“Each artwork has its own character and materiality,” explains lighting designer Igor Thomassen. “Our job is to bring that forward – not just to make it visible, but to make it impactful.”
Igor Thomassen, Lighting Designer at Light Bureau, part of AFRY
Programming and Precision
Benjamin Reinhoff, lighting control expert at Light Bureau, programmed the lighting for the exhibition and worked closely with both the artist and the composer.
“Some rooms use static light, others are dynamic and adapted to sound. For example, we used UV light beneath plexiglass to create a very special effect,” he says.
“Programming has become a key part of lighting design. It allows us to create moving, time-based, and more complex experiences.”
An Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Light Bureau has been a partner of MUNCH for several years, and the new agreement runs through 2027. What makes the collaboration work is the combination of interdisciplinarity, scalability, and technical precision – balanced with artistic understanding.
“We offer expertise from concept to final exhibition and can adapt the team as needed,” says Reinhoff. “The partnership with MUNCH is built on trust, flexibility, and a shared ambition to make art accessible in new ways.”
Benjamin Reinhoff, Electrical Control System Engineer at Light Bureau, part of AFRY
See It for Yourself
Art is not only about what hangs on the wall – it is also about how it is experienced in the space.
And light is part of that space.
We are proud to help shape the visitor experience at MUNCH, and we encourage you to visit Kerstin Brätsch’s exhibition and experience it for yourself.
The exhibition is on view until August 3. Read more about it here.
In addition, Light Bureau has also worked on the exhibition Edvard Munch Horisonter. Read more about it here.
