The impact of artificial lighting on improving the visual experience of museum visitors: A case study of Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Abstract

Lighting is a crucial element in museum design, directly influencing visitors’ psychological responses, visual experience, and overall satisfaction. Despite its significance, limited research exists on artificial lighting in museums within the United Arab Emirates. This study addresses that gap by examining the impact of artificial lighting on visitor experience at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, focusing on Gallery 4. A descriptive analytical approach was used, employing two surveys for data collection. The first survey, assessing satisfaction with ambient lighting, received 223 responses and was analyzed using SPSS. The second, evaluating the influence of lighting on the visual experience, gathered 74 responses. Findings revealed that 91.0% of visitors were negatively affected by inadequate lighting, such as glare or uneven distribution, which impaired exhibit engagement. Additionally, 90.6% indicated that appropriate lighting enhanced their comfort and satisfaction. In response, a lighting simulation for Gallery 4 was developed using Rendering AI and PromeAI to optimize distribution and visibility. The study recommends selecting lighting types that balance warm and cool tones, minimizing visual strain through established standards, using simulation tools to refine lighting design, and expanding research to include varied museum types, fostering more context-sensitive lighting strategies.