Research: Uncovering Preconceptions Surrounding the Concepts of Light and Shadows
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Overview​​​
This study examines the cultural and historical assumptions of Light and Shadow, which symbolize the duality of good and evil in mythology, fairy tales, and art. Traditionally, light represents knowledge, while shadows signify ignorance, as illustrated in Plato’s Allegory of the Cave. Additionally, light and shadow have marked time, influencing daily routines.
The aim is to understand how individuals interpret these concepts, particularly in visual art, and their personal significance.
Key Topics
While visual arts will be the primary focus, the research will explore related topics such as psychology and philosophy.​
Visual arts
How are Light and Shadows used, and how are these elements interpreted within context?
​Psychology
What is the relationship between Light and Shadows and their connection to human conditions, such as fear, hidden emotions, and behaviours? ​
Philosophy
What are the meanings of Light and Shadows and their historical significance?
Key Questions
What are the first three words that come to mind when I say “Light”?
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What are the first three words that come to mind when I say “Shadows”?
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If the concepts of Light and Shadow were two individuals, what would they look like? Please draw a quick picture of the pair and describe their main characteristics.
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Based on Parker’s art installation:
Why do you think the artist used shadows in this way?
Cold Dark Matter: An Exploded View by Cornelia Parker, 1991, Tate, London.
Visual Stimuli
Cornelia Parker’s art installation
Used to examine how light and shadows were perceived and interpreted in the context of visual arts.
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Creative Drawing
Participants received white paper and coloured pencils to draw their interpretation of Light and Shadows.
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Traditional Saying
To explore societal preconceptions, participants reflected on why the saying “Light at the end of the tunnel” is used instead of “Darkness at the end of the tunnel.”
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Quote
Participants reflected on Carl Jung’s quote, expanding on the negative connotations of shadows and the positive outcomes of facing them.
Participants agreed to the publication of their drawings.
Research Process​​​
Semi-structured interviews were conducted for this research, utilizing predetermined questions for clear direction while allowing spontaneous follow-ups to explore unexpected themes that arose. ​
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Methods and Tools
The interview design considered barriers, particularly questions on visual arts or psychology that might be complex for participants without prior knowledge.
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A literature review gathered existing information to establish a knowledge base and guide peer interviews.
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The interviews adhered to TriCouncil requirements:
Consent
Participants were informed about the research purpose, data collection, and protection, enabling informed participation.
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Fairness and Equity
Participants were randomly selected from the classroom to ensure no discrimination or exclusion.
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Privacy and Confidentiality
All personal information, including thoughts and ideas, was securely protected and used solely for research.
Insights​​
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People find enlightenment in the darkness.
Many people use words like “alone,” “relaxing,” and “quiet” to refer to darkness.
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Quote from participant
“For me, in the dark, things are much more internal and reflective.”
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No evil deeds have ever occurred because of daylight’s fault.
Generally speaking, most participants agreed that they could not picture light as evil even if bad experiences may happen too under broad daylight.
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Quote from participant:
“Many people wait for the darkness to do bad things.”
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Media, particularly movies, can help shape our preconceptions and potentially change or challenge them.
Many participants agreed that media reflects culture and can change our perspectives.
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Quote from participant
“Batman is shown as a good character even if he is shown as dark.”
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Religion has significantly influenced our perceptions of Light as good and Shadows as evil.
Most participants expressed that religion influenced their views on light and shadows, but this may not reflect their current perception. ​
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Darkness is closely linked to profound emotions and past experiences.
Some shared that they found peaceful introspection in a dark room.
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Quote from participant
“I would play with my hands to produce shadow shapes. I liked seeing them transformed when I moved my hands.”
Areas for Further Research
Future research may explore light and shadow preconceptions through scientific phenomena like eclipses. Examples of questions:
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Eclipses were once feared, but now they are a source of joy to many. Does this prove that our preconceptions of light and shadows have changed?
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What negative preconceptions linked to eclipses persist today?
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What are people’s thoughts about darkness after an eclipse? ​
© 2025 by Sara Vargas Nessi.