The physical installation consists of floating lanterns above a stylized representation of the Mt. Hood region. Acting as a blank canvas, the landscape transforms with projection mapping and LED lights that respond to community submissions. As people contribute their hopes for Portland, the installation shifts and evolves, displaying new messages and becoming a dynamic reflection of the city's collective aspirations.
At its core, Lanterns of Light is about hope, community, and imagination. It gives people a space to voice their dreams for Portland and connect with others through a shared vision. By seeing their hopes projected onto a glowing landscape, participants are reminded that change begins with a vision. Through light, interaction, and storytelling, Lanterns of Light shines a path toward a brighter future, one dream at a time.
Bringing this to life was definitely a team effort. I led the creative direction in collaboration with Portland-based studios Invisible Thread and 9iFX.
Process
Sketches > Procreate
Storyboard & Interaction Design > Illustrator & Miro
Installation Layout in 3D > Blender
AR & Marketing Design > Illustrator & Photoshop
2D Animation > After Effects
3D Models/ Materials/ Animation > Blender
AR Interactivity/ Particles > Three.js
We received hundreds of beautiful submissions, ranging from deeply personal to wildly imaginative. Seeing them illuminate the mountain and spark conversations among strangers was powerful and emotional. For me, the most meaningful part was watching the community quite literally light up with hope.
This project reminded me how immersive art can create moments of connection and reflection—especially when paired with technology that enhances, rather than replaces, human expression.
