Lighting | Insomnia

Introduction

​​

Michael Chan is the Principal Lighting Designer and founder of Lighting Insomnia, a Singapore-based design consultancy specializing in creating immersive and large-scale visual experiences. He has more than two decades of expertise over a diverse range of projects​.​

Michael is conversant in English and Mandarin and is currently based in Singapore, but works with collaborators across the world.

​

​

​

Design Philosophy

​​

Lighting design is about bridging gaps.

​

Bridging the space between imagination and reality; a constant negotiation between art and science.

​

To bring visions, colors, and rich worlds from the realm of imagination into reality, a lighting designer must possess both an acute aesthetic sensibility and a deep understanding of technical tools and systems.

​

This is where Michael stands—serving as that bridge. He balances the delicate scale between wonder and pragmatism, creativity and precision. His aim is to create moments that linger long after the lights fade—moments etched into the emotional memory of those who experience them.

​

​

​

Highlight Projects

​

• Concerts: The mega-concert extravaganza Sing50 Concert at the National Stadium and the Wang Lee Hom Music Man II World Tour.
   

• Events: Design consultation for premium hospitality venues such as F1 Paddock Club and multiple editions of Singapore National Day Parades.
   

• Exhibition: Immersive museum design for projects like The Albatross File exhibition at the Central Library and The World of Studio Ghibli exhibition at the ArtScience Museum.
   

• Theatre: Critically acclaimed productions such as Wild Rice's the Amazing Celestial Race and RWS Grouchmas.
   

• Architainment/Installations: Landmark projects including the Genting Sky Symphony Kinetic installation and the lighting for Cartier - Into the Wild Event at the Petronas Twin Towers in KL.​​​​
  
  
   

• Beyond Lighting

• ​

• With over 20 years of experience and an extensive industry network, Michael understands that lighting design is just one part of a complex and demanding creative ecosystem—one that requires an ensemble of specialists to craft truly unique and beautiful experiences.

• ​

• That is why Michael is part of a complete design solution, bringing together a trusted team of collaborators who are experts in their respective fields. From scenography design and fabrication to multimedia content, projection mapping, and equipment provision, each project is supported by the right expertise to realise its full creative potential.

​