The term “lumigraphy” may apply to any type of creation using spots of light as a medium - luminous sources such as fireflies or L.E.D’s - connected to each other by electricity conductors. These creations may be sculptures, paintings, hanging lights or mobiles and may be artisanal or industrial. The designer or conceiver of lumigraphs may be termed “lumigrapher”.Unlike luminaries, lumigraphs aren’t meant to illuminate in the functional sense: their purpose is, above all, artistic or decorative. The intention is to create a glowing ambience, sort of like candlelight.
In the strict sense of the term, lumigraphs are only the creations made of spots of light connected to each other by electrical conductors. Lumigraphy may however also designate other creations using spots of light, even when the applied technology or purpose is different. For example, illuminated sculptures made of optical fiber or luminaries providing functional lighting may be considered lumigraphs if the resulting impression is similar.