History Archives — Language of Light — The Intersection of Lighting, Efficiency and Architecture

The first Lighting Industry CEO: Thomas Edison

By Alcon Lighting / September 19, 2020

As an industry, electrical lighting is relatively new—less than 150 years old —and it originated thanks to an entrepreneur. This individual conceived of electrical lighting as a process of busy, active thought, contemplation, deliberation, experimentation and invention. His name is Thomas Edison. Edison founded the American lighting industry.

The first Lighting Industry CEO: Thomas Edison

September 19, 2020 by Alcon Lighting

Edison founded the American lighting industry.

Who Designed the Classic Ring Pendant in 1964’s Dr. Strangelove’?

August 3, 2020 by Alcon Lighting

The war room ring pendant in Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove may be the first modern appearance of the famous ring light trending in conference room lighting today. The epic, 22-foot diameter light hangs over upper echelon military personnel in the fictional depiction of a war room in Kubrick’s movie.

The History and Function of Track Lighting

February 24, 2020 by Alcon Lighting

With a reputation for being dated and generic, track lighting gets less respect than other lighting forms. But, given the history, purpose and record of track lighting, the reputation is undeserved. Track lighting, invented in 1961, offers an important commercial lighting design and function.