An illuminated whale shark, a garden of fire and giant glowing flowers are among the installations coming to Salford Quays for the Lightwaves Salford this winter. This year the free, interactive light show celebrates its 10th anniversary.
A total of 15 artworks will be spread across Salford Quays and Media City over the course of four evenings in December for the event, presented by Quays Culture. In a world-premiere, CETUS, is a 6m long whale shark which will glow under the water, enhanced by transparent fish scales.
The spectacular shark which will be seen swimming in the Quays’ dark waters, is created by Loomaland, the Berlin-based artists who created CYGNUS, the floating swans which features at Lightwaves 2021. Meanwhile on dry land, a tunnel of giant mirror rings will cover a 50m stretch of the Media City Piazza.
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Created by Loop, a group of UK-based artists, the artwork invites people to walk through the tunnel and immerse themselves in a multi-sensory experience. Outdoor art group Walk the Plank is returning to Lightwaves Salford with a Fire Garden, and this year it will include three brand new giant sculptures, with one over nine metres in size.
The Fire Garden will feature moving sculptures combined with fire and light, creating a mesmerising display. Other highlights include The Nectary, created by artist Alison Smith with Dr Chris Hassall, which will feature six giant hanging flowers.
Kate Doyle, Head of Programme for Quays Culture said: “The team at Quays Culture are truly excited by the programme of artworks curated for the 10th edition of Lightwaves Salford. Year on year the event delights audiences of all ages and we're certain that 2023 will be no exception.
“The programme is our best yet; it's a culmination of the decade we have spent bringing world class light art to the Quays, and always for free to our audiences.
“As humans we have a primal response to light, especially in the dark winter months. It brings warmth, wellbeing and intensifies positive emotions. All are welcome to Lightwaves Salford and to experience the joy of light art!”
Lightwaves Salford will run over four evenings from Thursday December 7 to Sunday December 10, from 4pm to 10pm. It’s completely free and you don’t need to book, simply turn up and explore the trail of artworks.
