Text by CLOT Magazine
This year’s edition of Lumiere, the largest festival of light in the UK, inaugurated in 2009, will take place from Thursday, 18th to Sunday, 21st November 2021, in Durham. The event, produced by Artichoke, puts forward a bright purpose: reimagining public spaces through large-scale artworks and light installations to suggest an alternative way to experience the urban environment and the buildings inhabiting the city.
As part of the festival, Brilliant was launched on 11th January. It consists of a nationwide commissioning scheme for new artworks to be included in the event. Everyone aged 18 and over is invited to participate and share a proposal for light-based artworks suitable to be enjoyed by a large audience over the four-night appointment. Sustainable technologies and recycled materials are encouraged, fostering a sensitivity already enacted during previous editions.
The submissions’ deadline is fixed on Thursday, 11th February at 9 am, and short-listed applicants will be notified at the beginning of the following month. Six awards are made available, three of which are reserved for aspirants from or living in the North East, as an incentive to local creativity and talents. Nevertheless, the call is open to the whole country for the first time, extending the project’s reach outside the region.
Candidates are not necessarily required of previous experience or to be practising artists. At an early stage, the committee is looking for a description of the project equipped with photos or drawings, details on materials, estimated cost, a proposed location, but above all, a sparkling idea and a narrative withstanding it.
Artichoke will support successful applicants during every step of the production and installation, with mentoring and practical expertise, and receive a fee. The contest represents an opportunity to approach the field for those interested in pursuing an artistic career by showcasing one’s work to a variegated public. It aims to enhance County Durham’s dedication to culture and creativity.
