What is the function of silk in lighting?

The correct function of silk in lighting is to filter color. Silk is commonly used as a material for diffusing and softening light in theatrical lighting. When placed in front of lighting fixtures, silk helps to scatter the light, creating a softer and more even illumination. Additionally, it can enhance colors and reduce harsh shadows, providing a more aesthetically pleasing effect.

Choosing silk specifically helps in managing how light interacts with the set and performers, tailoring the visual experience for the audience. This use of silk highlights its role in color filtration by altering the quality of light rather than merely stretching it or focusing it in one direction. It also plays a lesser role in heat absorption, but this is not its primary purpose in theatrical lighting design.