For the sixth year, Canberra will once again light up after dark, transforming the Parliamentary Triangle, National Zoo and Aquarium and Australian Botanic Gardens into a nocturnal playground of architectural projections, larger than life installations, exclusive experiences, premier performances and enchanting live entertainment.
A key feature of Enlighten is the stunning architectural projections that transform the Parliamentary Triangle for nine nights. The Electric Canvas and selected artists will present site-specific designs across six iconic buildings: Australian Parliament House, Old Parliament House, National Library of Australia, Questacon, National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Australia.
Selected artists: Amanda Morgan, Mark Kelly, Melinda Heal, Riley Post and Tianli Zu and the Academy of Interactive Entertainment have been mentored by The Electric Canvas, to transform and translate their own work into architectural projections. The resulting works by each artist have been inspired by the architecture of the buildings and informed by their own arts practice and themes within the program for Enlighten.
A vibrant hub of activity during Enlighten, Parliamentary Triangle will feature plenty of free entertainment such as mesmerizing street artists and musical performances including Black Hole Theatre’s Meduses – giant illuminated jellyfish transport you to the deep blue and the life aquatic. As they glide through space, these creatures of luminous beauty change colour.
A furry innocence, frolicking through idyllic fields, Amanda Parer’s very large inflatable white rabbits, illuminated in stark white light, have been invading festivals around the world. The bunnies of Intrude stand tall yet relaxed at 7 m high and appear to be quite at home in their new patch.
A modern interpretation of the travelling circuses and sideshows of the late 1800s, which rolled into towns across America, Cirque Mechanics’ Gantry Bike will inspire, awe and entertain. An awe-inspiring sculpture that doubles as a secret cubby, Unuscornu will make you believe in a magical place where supernatural creatures can exist and anything is possible.
Ever wondered what goes on in Canberra’s most famous institutions after dark? Find out as the National Portrait Gallery, National Gallery of Australia and more open their doors after closing to allow visitors exclusive late night access to collections, exhibitions and galleries.
And as the lights go on across the Parliamentary Triangle, tuck into authentic Asian eats, from dumplings to dosa, Pad Thai to gyoza at the Enlighten Night Noodle Markets. With bars and music adding to the market atmosphere, the celebration of food and produce from around the region features many of Canberra’s favourite eateries.
Enlighten continues to 12 March 2016. For more information, visit: www.enlightencanberra.com.au for details.
Image: Enlighten at Questacon (supplied)