Shine

At 4:30 on Friday 22^nd January Sunderland could be seen in a very different light. Several colourful lights to be accurate. This was Shine 2010, an urban garden arts festival transforming the city for the ten days. Blackpool may have its illuminations, but on these dark, miserable January Evenings, Sunderland is shining brighter than ever before. The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens offers passers-by the chance to view Andrew Richardson’s  impressive Wallflowers design, inspired by William Morris this can be found projected on the outside of the museum. Four multi-coloured pillars of light greet you upon entrance into the building, this is Suzie Brown’s Urban Bird design.

Adults and Children alike will be amazed and enthralled by the secret world of the Winter Gardens by Night. This illuminated paradise will whisk you away on a magical journey as you colour reflects and spirals around the room and lights up the dome shaped roof. A fabulous display which can also be viewed from miles around, although nothing beats being inside witnessing it first hand. The view from the canopy is something to remember, creating a chorus of gasps and ‘wows’ from the awestruck visitors.

The festival isn’t simply confined to one building, several areas nearby are lit up and decorated by an abundance of art created by a range of artists. The City Library and arts centre is a focal point, showcasing a plethora of designs by Students of Sunderland University including one students take on how the world would appear should we let nature take over.

If you embark upon a guided tour, you’ll be treated to ‘vie’ which is exhibited inside the City arts centre and Library. It’s an abstract design which implements both colour and sound whilst requiring interaction to playfully control the flow of liquid light.

Sunniside is another area worth exploring of an evening especially with the water fountains flowing in a variety of lively and attractive colours, but the focal point is ‘The Hive’  which is also an interactive piece of artwork and a particular favourite amongst the younger population. Light is projected from above and tracks the motion of the pedestrians as well as providing a soundtrack by William Glass.

Shine 2010 runs until 31^st January, every evening between 4:30 and 8pm. All ages are encouraged to immerse themselves in this feast of visual art and light and it’s completely free.

If you fancy a break from the old routine or simply want a alternative January evening, Shine 2010 is highly recommended. Mesmerising and Magical are two words rarely associated with Sunderland, but for the next ten evening they are perfectly applicable”

More information at www.sunderlandevents.co.uk.