Meticulous use of highlight and contrast created a transcendent backdrop for the majestic and spiritual exhibition pieces in this TDA illuminated exhibition now celebrated as the most-visited show in the history of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The abundant use of natural light, frequently employed within medieval cathedrals, is a strong and purposeful motif used throughout the exhibition. At the Medieval Sculpture Gallery, digital projectors mounted from existing clerestory windows mimic daylight streaming in upon the procession of garments at the center of the room. The theatrical and architectural lighting designers’ close collaboration achieves a natural but exhilarating effect through the use of color tuning, to enhance the hue of each individual garment without sacrificing drama. Throughout each gallery space, existing and new track lighting is carefully screened and refocused to balance the light levels on the existing artifacts and to maintain the prominence of the garments on display, despite highly restrictive light level criteria.

In contrast to the medieval galleries, the Anna Wintour Costume Institute, which features papal robes and Sistine Chapel artifacts, is located below-grade with no access to natural daylight. The resulting concept of papal garments emerging from an ethereal fog was realized through the use of a contrasting cooler color temperature on the surrounding architectural planes and a starkly illuminated backdrop within the primary display case. New wall-washing fixtures are outfitted with gels and diffusion to provide a soft, even layer of enveloping light for the whole interior.

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