Kim Coleman and Harun Morrison: Darkness in Urban Space
What are the needs for darkness in urban space? And how can we communicate findings in a way that affects future policy?
In 2023, Richmond Council’s planning department invited artists Kim Coleman and Harun Morrison to carry out a research project addressing light pollution. The UK experiences excess light pollution. Many of the borough’s green spaces are intentionally left to be ‘dark corridors’ to avoid unnecessary artificial light that can disturb protected species like bats. However, choosing whether to light parks and open spaces is contentious: for many who use these spaces to walk dogs, commute to and from work, and for leisure, darkness can compromise their ability to use and enjoy the environment. The council also needs to ensure community safety.
The council’s planning department chose to commission artists, as opposed to other researchers, in the hope they would approach research and share findings in novel ways that would engage policymakers.
This document is the result of a year-long research project by Kim and Harun. It is designed to give policy-makers insights into needs for darkness in urban space.