Lighting Designer: The Future of the Profession

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In the final part of our conversation with Latvian scenographer and lighting designer Andrejs Dubkovs, we look ahead. What changes are coming to the industry? What advice would he give to the next generation of professionals? And how can we keep the essence of lighting design alive in a rapidly changing world?

Where is the industry heading?

“Latvia has always been strong in terms of access to industrial technologies. But soon we’ll see more low-cost products from China entering the market — and that might shift the entire ecosystem. I hope that theaters will be able to change the old equipment and preference will fall on the highest quality equipment with the latest technologies”

Andrejs believes that the next few years will bring a generational shift. Many professionals working today may move on, and new designers will enter the field with fresh perspectives. The challenge? Balancing technical progress with artistic depth.

What's being lost — and why it matters

“We’re starting to lose the essence of the profession. There are more and more operators — people who execute, but don’t create.”

Andrejs points out that while knowledge and tools are now more accessible than ever, they’re often misused to mask inexperience. Technologies are replacing visual thinking, not supporting it. Lighting design becomes a button push, not a vision.

Trends, tools, and the danger of imitation

“Pixel mapping, beams — they’re trendy, but they’re just formulas. You’re not designing — you’re copying math.”

Andrejs doesn’t reject modern tools — in fact, he encourages mastering them. But he warns that they should support creativity, not replace it. The real power lies in a designer’s mind, not the generator.

“Yes, you need to know the software. It saves time and resources. But it shouldn’t think for you.”

What's next for the Art Lighting Community?

The first meetup focused on breaking the silence: reminding professionals they’re not alone, and encouraging honest discussion about stagnation, fear of experimentation, and creative burnout.

“Next time, I hope the audience will be even more open. More opinions. More shared experience. That’s how we build a real community.”

And finally — advice for young designers?

“Don’t lose your edge. Keep learning. Look around. Be the first to experiment with new tools, but also train your eyes. Learn to see. Draw. Set high goals.”

His message is clear: lighting design is not about tech specs or presets. It’s about perception, memory, and emotion. If we stop being curious, we stop being artists.

This is the final part of our interview with Andrejs Dubkovs, part of the Lighting Professionals Series by VGD Project.
Missed the earlier parts?
Catch up on Part 1 and Part 2 — and stay tuned for more industry voices.

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