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LD Profile: Austin Grundberg

Posted on December 15, 2011

Six questions with Austin Grundberg
At just 14 years of age, Grundberg has already started his own lighting company, AGLite Inc.His future goal is “to do concerts and touring.”

1. How did you get into this field?
I have always been fascinated with fire trucks and their lights. When I finally saw my first concert, I still could not stop looking at the lights. I then looked into lighting fixtures and it became more interesting. Finally, when I turned 14 I decided I wanted to start a lighting company.

2. What do you think is the next big thing in the lighting industry?
Personally I think its LEDs. But, I also think there should be a line of high end but less expensive moving heads and other fixtures. This is especially important to me due to not having much money. Also, having a real controller, one with a display, maybe a trackball/joystick, faders, and momentary buttons, that’s also affordable.

3. Do you have a favorite fixture (and why)?
Yes, COLORpalette. I like it because it’s bright and very versatile. But my next buy is probably a COLORrail IRC IPbecause of its versatility and I can use it outdoors.

"A shot with all my equipment on," said Grundberg

4. What has been your favorite design/project?
My favorite design project would have to be the Oak Grove School Variety Show, probably because it was my first Independent show.

5. What was the biggest unforeseen obstacle that you’ve faced in one of your designs, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle was trying to do the Variety Show without enough equipment. It was my first show and I had to rent equipment and use the school’s equipment. Its hard getting enough equipment when your only 14. Fortunately, I got it done with the help of the sound tech, who gave me a couple of lighting shops around my area.

6. Complete this thought: A show without light is like…nothing, can’t see them, can’t see facial expressions, can’t see anything, a show doesn’t work without lighting. It’s like watching a shadow move around.