IESNYC Thesis Award Recipient Gavin Cantrell

Designer Gavin Cantrell was awarded the IESNYC Thesis Award in July 2024. The award recognizes the exceptional contributions of young professionals and students to the advancement of lighting design and research. Gavin’s thesis was a complete lighting design for the DePaul Theatre School in Chicago, which was inspired by the fluidity of a lava lamp. After over a decade working in film and television, Gavin made the transition into architectural lighting design and received a Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design (MPSL) at New York School of Interior Design while interning at FMS.

“Receiving the IESNYC Thesis Award reaffirms my commitment to transitioning into architectural lighting design. This recognition strengthens my belief that I’ve chosen the right career path. The IESNYC is an indispensable resource and community for all students of light. In-person events such as the student lighting competition at LEDucation are some of the few chances for the greater NYC student lighting community to come together in such a creative and supportive way.” – Gavin Cantrell