Light reveals.

At sunrise, the world emerges in color and detail. At sunset, it gradually recedes, becoming less distinct and increasingly hidden. In darkness, we turn to artificial light to guide us, comfort us and illuminate what would otherwise remain unseen.

Long before electricity, people relied on the gentle glow of bedside oil lamps and glass-shielded fairy lamps. Beyond their practical purpose, these lights were believed to ward off darkness and malevolent spirits.

Artist David Winigrad’s upcoming Romano Gallery exhibit Nightlights explores the enduring presence of nightlights and the ways they comfort us while revealing our surroundings in unexpected ways. The exhibition will feature 25 illuminated nightlights carefully crafted to evoke everything from silliness to solace and security. Nightlights will be on display in the Romano Gallery from September 7 through October 1. 

“Through mixed-media sculpture, my intention is not to provide a functional benefit, but to evoke an emotional response,” Mr. Winigrad explains. “I hope to create a space for contemplation and quiet wonder, illuminating a world that exists just beyond the reach of ordinary sight.”

Based in the Philadelphia suburbs, Mr. Winigrad pursued a career as an advertising creative director after earning his BFA from Carnegie Mellon University. He began shifting his focus from two-dimensional mediums to 3D in 2013, advancing the traditional whirligig folk art form into wind-powered, kinetic sculptures. Designated a Master Artisan by the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, Mr. Winigrad has won numerous awards and exhibited his work at prestigious shows across the country, including the Smithsonian Craft Show. 

All are welcome to attend his artist talk in the Romano Gallery on Thursday, September 17, at 7 p.m. Please join us for an artist reception before the talk from 3 to 6 p.m., with light food and drink included. RSVP here by Tuesday, September 1.