New York, NY- For an eighth consecutive year, Designer David Grill was brought on board to light one of the world's most prestigious political gatherings, the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting. 

Established by President Bill Clinton in 2005, CGI brings global leaders together to create and implement innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.

Focusing on the topics being discussed at the meeting, Grill approaches each year with the goal of tailoring his design to support and present those topics both in person and online.  Efficiency and the ability to be flexible are the keys for Grill, as the event changes by the minute.  One thing that hasn't changed during the nearly decade-long run of the event:  Grill's equipment provider, 4Wall New York.

Held inside the Sheraton in New York City, the 2014 incarnation of the event posed new challenges to the veteran designer and his team.

"The ballroom is not incredibly friendly, with low height and architectural elements such as chandeliers," said Grill. "It made us use some creative solutions to light both the audience and the stage."

The recent ballroom renovation caused Grill to modify his truss layout and positions to adapt to the space.  Grill chose fixtures from 4Wall New York that could be utilized in tight spaces while remaining dependable.

"Every fixture I chose was selected not only for its strong points, but also for its reputation for reliability, which is a huge concern of mine," said Grill.

A few of the items on his gear list meeting those requirements were Martin MAC Auras and ETC Source Four Series 2 Lustr LEDs.

"The MAC Auras are really small and gave us options for beam size and very accurate color.  Plus the Aura feature is great for camera shots.  The Lustr LEDs worked really well as we stuffed them into a very tight position.  Up until this year we had used scrollers on Source Fours, so having the Lustr 2s in that space this year made it much easier for us to focus."

Grill also test drove the newest addition to 4Wall New York's moving light inventory, Vari-Lite VL4000 Spots.

"We used the VL4000 spots in areas where we had previously used VL3500 spots.  They worked really well and I welcomed the new gobo and animation options, plus the iris that came with them."

In the end Grill was able to again file the CGI meeting under the category of successful events, despite navigating the constant schedule changes and concerns that come with lighting a conference filled with political delegations from around the world.  Along the way, Grill praised the team at 4Wall New York for their continued support.

"4Wall is always a great partner on the event.  From budgeting to support and service, they are great collaborators and I love working with Al and his team."