UVLD founding partner John Ingram was invited by producer and longtime collaborator o2 Creative Solutions to light the Los Angeles Auto Show press events for FCA brands Alfa Romeo and Jeep.

Unique to this year, FCA decided to execute launches for the two brands in the same space: a tent constructed at the entrance to the convention center. This allowed complete control over the environment, without having the traditional challenges of ambient light and noise from other manufacturers.

But sharing a space created a new challenge. Alfa Romeo and Jeep are two very different brands, and each event needed to have a distinct look.

Scenic designer Helene Harley Kenny created two environments. Alfa Romeo was an unambiguously elegant black-and-red display reflecting the legendarily sleek design of the brand. Jeep was as rugged as Alfa Romeo was refined: the set was made from scaffolding and the scenic treatment evoked the off-road capability for which the vehicles are known.

Alfa Romeo showcased two new vehicles: the Giulia and the automaker’s first-ever SUV, the Stelvio. An understated red look greeted reporters during the walk in, until the cars materialized in dynamic and exciting reveals synced with video and bursts of moving light.

Jeep also revealed two cars: the Jeep Compass Limited and the Jeep Compass Trailhawk. Working with programmer Matthew Piercy, John created a richly saturated blue look for the event, with lighting that precisely followed the vehicles up and down ramps built into the steely set and through a large pool of water on the deck.

Sal Restuccia and James Wilmoth masterfully installed a PRG system comprised of VariLite 4K spots, Clay Paky B-EYEs, and Mythos hybrids, GLP Impression x4’s, and TMB Solaris Flares.

The O2 team was lead by Executive Creative Director Brian Hords, Executive Producer Laura Leigh, and show caller Gretchen Van Horne.  Chris Dowling was the technical director and did a fantastic job of helping us make the magic happen.