Message from the Director

Why "Illuminations"?

For art historians, illumination refers to medieval manuscript illustration, carried out by monks in the painstaking process of transmitting knowledge in the period before print.

Illumination evokes the special radiance of aesthetic experience and the power of the arts and culture to provide insight and inspiration, both as part of academic inquiry and in response to life processes and challenges.

The UC motto is Fiat Lux, "Let there be light." Illumination, like enlightenment, emphasizes the university’s dedication to the pursuit of truth and knowledge, but highlights the affective and ethical side of that search.

In Southern California, where sunlight and natural beauty are bountiful, Illumination evokes plein air outdoor painting and performances, along with nature-inspired art activities.

Therefore, UCI Illuminations is plural and multiple. While Illuminations respects classical traditions, it also seeks to go beyond the Western Enlightenment mindset by exploring different cultures and artistic genres and investigating intercultural and cross-disciplinary possibilities. Art goes beyond museums and theatres; art exists in public spaces and natural environment. Our multicultural, transnational, and interdisciplinary programming aims to augment underrepresented voice. Art is in medicine, sociology, technology, and food; an artistic and creative mind allows us to find art anywhere.

Illuminations offers our students a unique experience of learning, exploring and celebrating art as the center of humanity and civilization. Through arts and culture, we learn to inhabit our worlds more fully as scholars, citizens, and human beings.

Learn more about Illuminations

The Illuminations typographic design element was created by Katrina Kean, an MFA student in Graphic Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art.