Shining a light on sanctuary
AN audio-visual installation is coming to Leicester this week.
Where There is Light, by Squidsoup, aims to bring people together to share a sense of connection and hope.
Illuminated globes surround the audience in moving patterns and colours, while a soundtrack, created by people seeking sanctuary, shifts around the installation with sights and sounds.
The installation is part of the UK’s first festival of Sanctuary, Journeys Festival International, which hopes to bring thousands of people together to explore cultures from around the globe in Leicester, Manchester and Portsmouth from Friday to October 24.
It is being brought to the city thanks to a partnership between BID Leicester and the cathedral.
Tickets need to be booked, and are free or pay what you decide.
Twenty artists ranging from countries including Syria, Iran and Zimbabwe are teaming up with UK and European artists to celebrate the exploration of global cultures.
Also as part of the festival, Bloodland Embrace, an outdoor animation, will be shown in Green Dragon Square, Leicester, from October 21 to 23.
From October 22 to 24, Phoenix Cinema and Arts Centre will host the new virtual reality experience Graffiti Art and Protest in Iran. Audiences will be provided with a virtual reality headset and transported to a water tunnel covered in graffiti art.
The site is based on a real-life tunnel in Iran that became a focal point for political and social protest against the Iranian authorities.
Creative director Lorna Fulton said: “We aim to celebrate the people from the UK and all over the globe that come together and create our inspiring and unique communities.
“Now more than ever, we see a great need to increase acceptance and understanding in society, alongside a better understanding of mental health.
“This festival wants people to explore the wonderful traditions and celebrate the creative talents the world has to offer.”