Exhibition: SOIL: The World at Our Feet
Client: Somerset House
When internationally acclaimed photographer Jim Richardson was invited to exhibit his work Big Bluestem (2006), a lifesize photograph from his ‘Prairie Roots’ series, at the SOIL exhibition at Somerset House, the goal was to create a display that reflected the real life scale of the Big Bluestem grasses while honouring the exhibition’s themes of sustainability and humanity’s relationship with the natural world. SOIL explored the critical role of soil in sustaining life, examining its cultural, environmental, and scientific importance. For Richardson, whose photography often captures the beauty and fragility of the natural environment, the display solution needed to reflect the exhibition’s ecological ethos while delivering an unforgettable visual experience.
Photo credit: SOIL: The World at Our Feet, Somerset House, 2025. Photographer Reinis Lismanis
Key features...
1.
Applelec's ECO Friendly Lightbox, aligned perfectly with the sustainability narrative of the SOIL exhibition.
2.
Bright, uniform light that brings out the depth and intricacy of the print, whilst keeping energy consumption to a minimum
3.
Lightbox skin made from recycled yarn and plastic bottles, printed with water based, non-toxic inks
4.
A lightweight construction and modular design supported the 3.8m tall display
The Applelec ECO Lightbox, measuring 3.8m x 0.715m with a 70mm depth and finished in a sleek silver anodised frame, was the ideal choice. Its fabric skin, made from recycled plastic bottles, aligned perfectly with the sustainability narrative of the SOIL exhibition. Furthermore, the skin was printed using water-based, non-toxic inks, ensuring the entire display adhered to environmentally friendly practices. Not only did this material reflect the exhibition’s commitment to sustainability, but it also delivered exceptional print clarity, allowing Richardson’s photographs to shine with vibrant colours and intricate details.
At the core of the lightbox’s performance was the SloanLED Brightline 2+, a state-of-the-art LED system known for its brilliant illumination and energy efficiency. Operating at just 154W and powered by a single Applelec 24V power supply unit, the Brightline 2+ provided consistent, high-quality illumination while keeping energy consumption minimal. Its dimmable functionality was particularly suited to the gallery environment, where controlling brightness was essential to ensure the display harmonised with other works in the space. This feature allowed Richardson’s lightbox to stand out without overwhelming the atmosphere of the SOIL exhibition.
The project was not without its challenges. The lightbox’s substantial size - 3.8m tall - exceeded the height of the wall it was to be mounted on and needed to be securely fixed to an overhanging frame without adding excessive weight. The solution lay in the lightbox’s lightweight construction and modular design. It was supplied in three sections for ease of transport and assembly. To ensure a flawless installation, CAD drawings were provided, detailing the sectional layout, bracing, and fixing points. Additional bracing was integrated into the top section to support the overhanging design, and pre-drilled holes allowed for a seamless and precise fit. These features ensured the lightbox was installed efficiently and securely despite the challenging conditions.
The results were remarkable, as Richardson’s illuminated photography captivated visitors with its vibrant and dynamic presentation, complementing the carefully curated environment of the SOIL exhibition. It showcased the power of innovative design and sustainable practices in creating a compelling visual experience. By integrating eco-friendly materials, advanced LED technology, and meticulous planning, the Jim Richardson Illuminated Lightbox brought his photography to life while seamlessly supporting the SOIL exhibition’s vital message about the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world.
For more information about the SOIL exhibition, visit Somerset House: SOIL Exhibition.
