A stunning collection of illuminated artworks is set to transform the city this October as Light Night returns.
Taking place 22nd to 23rd October, the hugely popular cultural showcase will be lighting up some of the city’s most recognisable buildings and locations with creations by artists from around the world.
This year’s theme is ‘Landmarks’ and the event will celebrate some of the city’s historic civic buildings, modern architecture, and public spaces, as well as asking visitors to contemplate their own personal landmarks and the places which are important and memorable to them.
Key pieces will include an enchanting projection on the face of the iconic Queens Hotel celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. Created by German Artist, Dirk Rauscher, the artwork entitled One Second Lovestory captures the romantic moment when two people’s eyes meet at a busy train station.
Leeds Civic Hall will also host a mesmerising new commission by Portuguese Artists Ocubo, co-produced by the British Library. Portals: The Machine of Worlds, incorporates fantastical imagery from books in the library’s collection, inviting visitors to explore universes of science, illusion, and discovery.
“At the British Library we are thrilled to again be involved with Light Night – a unique festival that brings art into public spaces in the city, brightening up dark autumn evenings,” said Jamie Andrews, Director of Public Engagement at the British Library: “We’re delighted that Ocubo has taken inspiration from science fiction texts in our collection, including classics by H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. We hope visitors of all ages are inspired by Light Night and the immersive, fantastical visions of other worlds that Ocubo’s artwork will conjure.
“Our collaboration with Light Night Leeds is part of a wider commitment, as we work towards establishing a major new public space for the British Library in Leeds, to engage with local people and partners by opening up our collection through events in the city.”
Working with cultural venues all over the city to create an inclusive, citywide festival, other installations will include large-scale projections, light artworks, performance, and interactive pieces by international, national, and Yorkshire-based artists.
Since it began in 2005, the event has grown in size, scope, and popularity, with a record 210,400 people estimated to have attended last year, boosting the local economy by generating an estimated £5.46 million.
The festival is organised and supported by Leeds City Council and funded by Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant funding, and sponsors from the city’s business community.
“Light Night is an event which truly exemplifies the very best of culture and life in the city, bringing thousands of people together for a collective experience which celebrates artistic ingenuity and the power of the arts to unite,” said Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Active Lifestyles and Culture: “The impact the event has on the city in terms of boosting our reputation as a cultural destination, supporting the local economy, and promoting local and regional artists cannot be overstated, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what will be an occasion like no other.”
