FABRIC OF OUR SOCIETY

The Fabric of Our Society column invites industry leaders to provide experience-based opinions and discussions on various topics. Diverse perspectives are respected and most welcome, but do not necessarily reflect the opinions of IESNYC or the Board of Managers. Want to contribute?  Email [email protected]

March 2025

The Legacy of Richard Kelly: Seeking the Next Generation of Lighting Innovation  

Stephen Bernstein 
Principal, Cline Bettridge Bernstein Lighting Design

Richard Kelly was a founder of the (still-young) lighting design profession, but it’s the coming generations who will reexamine its tenets and explore its frontiers. That’s why Stephen Bernstein serves on the Kelly Grant Committee. "Having served on the Richard Kelly Grant Board and jury for the last number of years, I've witnessed firsthand the evolution of this prestigious award." MORE >

February 2025

There’s a Hero in Each of Us 

Matthew Tirschwell
CEO/Founder, Tirschwell & Co., Inc.

Award-winning lighting designer Matthew Tirschwell made the news when he jumped onto the subway tracks and saved the life of a man struck by a train. This dramatic rescue reinforced his belief that we all have a duty to help the stranger in need. MORE >