Art participant's dialogue with light in the context of relational aesthetics

Relational aesthetics is a theoretical framework proposed by Nicolas Bourriaud in the 1990s for the proper evaluation of art during that period. The relational art theory has drawn attention to the negative impact of technology on interpersonal relationships by facilitating the formation of new relationships. According to Bourriaud, technology, through applications that replace human interaction, undermines established relationships, and relationality is reconstructed through art. For relationality to emerge, the art audience must actively participate in the execution of art. In this regard, the transition of the art audience to participants is crucial. Modern art and subsequent art movements have enabled the audience to become participants in art. In interactive art projects, participants contribute to the artwork, thus playing an active role in its execution. In artworks with a relational form, participants will reveal relationality. Works evaluated in the context of relational aesthetics may include non-technological mediums. Artificial light introduced into human life with technology, alongside digital screens, is an element people are exposed to daily. Despite its negative effects, artificial light also facilitates human life. This thesis research examines the use of artificial light as a technological medium in fostering relationality within a relational context. The relationship between humans and natural or artificial light mediums is explored within the context of relational aesthetics. The aim is to highlight how artificial light mediums and their effects create new realms of relationships.