The Holocaust Museum

Doing the second lighting charade made me think about my experience in visiting the holocaust museum in Washington D.C. The architect specifically uses light in the design of the building to add to the meaning of the displays. Upon arrival, you get in an elevator and go to the fourth floor, which is extremely dimly lit and has displays of Nazi propaganda along the walls. As you continue, the darkness deepens, guiding you through displays of children's shoes and railroad cars. At one point, however, you walk from a very dark room into a room made of windows on all sides, and the glass is inscribed with the names of victims. This is an expression of hope and celebration of those people's lives. You continue in the darkness/ light pattern until you finally emerge into the lively, brightly lit foyer. It's a fascinating and thought provoking experience.