Imagine it’s either early in the morning or late at night. The room is dark, your computer screen glows in the darkness, and your surroundings are quiet.
Whether you are a writer, designer or artist, you might flourish as a creative person in these low-key settings. But why? Is this preference based on scientific or psychological grounds, or is it merely a quirk of the imaginative brain?
Studies have shown that our brain’s capability to process information and generation thought can be affected by the brightness (or otherwise) of a room.
Research in the Journal of Environmental Psychology suggests that reduced lighting levels can boost cognitive flexibility, facilitating creative thinking. Meanwhile, a German study posits that “darkness increases freedom from constraints, which in turn promotes creativity”.
Bright surroundings, on the other hand, are often linked with analytical and ordered thinking, which may not always be perfect for artistic activities.
Specifically, working in the dark lessens visual distractions, allowing the brain to concentrate more closely on current tasks. This can cause a condition known as “flow”, in which creative professionals get engrossed in their work with fewer interruptions.
Darkness and the subconscious
As the German research notes, low brightness fosters psychological freedom: people frequently feel less self-conscious in darkness, which helps reduce obstructions and inspires more unique thoughts. Some people are more at ease sharing their ideas in a quiet, private environment than under intense, fluorescent light.
Moreover, the atmosphere of a low-light workspace affects emotions and mood. Warm, low lighting can assist creatives in controlling their stress by encouraging peace and relaxation.
This is why many musicians, writers, and artists choose to work at night – not only for the silence but also for the mood the darkness creates.
So, the final question is: does this work for everyone?
Although many artists swear by the dark, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some people, poor brightness can cause them to feel lazy or drowsy. Others encounter eye strain from staring at a screen in a dark room.
The secret is balance. Try several lighting setups to see which improves your well-being and output. Combining natural light throughout the day with low lighting in the evening may help you maximise your creative process.
Ultimately, the joy of working in the dark among creatives is real, regardless of scientific backing or personal inclination. You are not alone if you find the most inspiration in shadows and the faint glow of your desk lamp or screen.
This article was originally written by Anisa Aznan for jobstore.com, an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia.
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