New York, NY — The Illuminating Engineering Society New York City Section (IESNYC) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Richard Kelly Grant, which honors the legacy of Richard Kelly, one of the foremost pioneers in architectural lighting design. This year’s recipients, Katie Czub and Anushka Jain, exemplify Kelly’s principles through their innovative and creative work in the field of illumination.
The Richard Kelly Grant is a program designed to encourage young people who are passionate about light and demonstrate an innovative approach to light, as art and/or science. Administered by the IESNYC under the auspices of the IES, the Grant is open to individuals 35 and under, studying or working in the art and/or science of illumination, in the United States, Canada or Mexico. The purpose of the Grant is to recognize and encourage creative thought and activity in the use of light.
2024 Richard Kelly Grant Recipients
Katie Czub
Katie Czub’s journey to the forefront of architectural lighting began with the discovery of the iconic Glass House, igniting her mission to transform the architectural landscape through the nuanced interplay of light and shadow. Holding a Bachelor of Architecture and a 
Master of Science in Architectural Sciences with a Concentration in Lighting from Rensselaer, Katie joined Fisher Marantz Stone in 2013. Her technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail have significantly enriched the built environment, introducing innovative lighting solutions that elevate and define spaces.
Katie is actively engaged in shaping the future of the lighting industry, sharing her insights through dynamic presentations that inspire innovation. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys exploring the culinary arts.
“Light is a form giver, unveiling material potential and shaping immersive environments. As we accelerate toward a technological singularity, I’m driven to harness light’s power to shape spaces that elevate our shared human experience.”
Anushka Jain
Anushka Jain is recognized for her research into the use of colored lighting in art galleries to enhance the perceived vibrancy of artworks. Her lighting model proposes immersive viewing environments that expand art beyond the canvas, incorporating color 
theory, the physiological effects of visible light, and simultaneous contrast to challenge traditional gallery lighting design.
Jain, a Lighting Designer at LOOP Lighting’s New York office, graduated with honors from Parsons School of Design’s MFA in Lighting Design program. Her work has been featured at the IES24 Lighting Conference in New York, and she continues to explore ways to integrate emerging lighting technologies into her research and practice.
“Art is never born in isolation. Lighting designers, like collaborators in a creative symphony, must join forces with artists and curators to sculpt light, shaping the space and imbuing the artwork with its true context.”
Mike Barr, IESNYC Board Member and representative of Lutron Electronics Co. Inc., shared his enthusiasm for the recipients’ work: “The Richard Kelly Grant continues to recognize and inspire innovation in lighting design. Katie Czub and Anushka Jain’s work exemplifies the spirit of creativity and exploration that defines our industry, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for the transformative power of light. Their contributions remind us of lighting’s ability to shape experiences and elevate the spaces we inhabit.”
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