Every two years Durham hosts Lumiere, an interactive art and sound festival. This typically involves a projection onto Durham Cathedral as well as artwork around the city. For just a few evenings from 12-16 October, Luxmuralis brings an immersive experience to the interior of the cathedral. It’s quite something.
Who is Luxmuralis?
Luxmuralis is an award winning artistic collaboration. Their sound and light art, known as Son-et-Lumiere transforms unique spaces in the UK and abroad. The soundtrack you’ll hear was recorded by David Harper. The striking visual imagery was created by Peter Walker, an artist who has interpreted collections from the Natural History Museum Oxford and the William Morris Museum. (we did think between us that some of the patterns were very William Morris – now it makes sense why!) See also if you spot the animals in some of the photos of the installation below.
What’s it like?
It’s of course typical to say ‘you’d have to see it to experience it for yourself’ however everyone would appreciate this in different ways. Seeing some of the artwork relating to animals, for example the black rhino which are critically endangered, it’s hard to not contemplate the actions of humans on the environment. I think the intention is that the artwork is thought provoking, again how this resonates with each person will differ. It also showcases the beauty of the planet, metamorphosis and the passing of time.
With the pews removed from the centre of the cathedral it feels like a different space – even before you consider the artworks being projected. Seating has been kept along the sides, so if you’d like to sit and enjoy the experience a little longer, you’re welcome to.
While Life by Luxmuralis is at the cathedral, there’s the addition of a bar offering refreshments to purchase. I guess it makes sense as after hours the cafe wouldn’t be open in the cloisters. Whether you fancy starting mulled wine season early, or enjoying the perfect crisp autumnal evening drink – hot chocolate – there’s something for you.
Considering you can spend as long as you want here once you’ve arrived at your ticketed entry time, it makes sense to offer some refreshments, plus there’s some seating in this section for you to enjoy your drinks.
Tickets
Unfortunately, if you didn’t already purchase a ticket from Durham Cathedral’s website, they have all now sold out. Here’s hoping that with the demand we might be on the map for future events. Maybe you can catch a Luxmuralis experience somewhere near you? There’s a list of what’s on at other places in the UK for the rest of the year on the Luxmuralis website.
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