Every winter, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden transforms overnight into an immersive light installation with thoughtfully curated soundscape after dark. This unique combination of visual and soundscapes brings Lightscape to life by creating a magical experience that enchants visitors of all ages. Whether with your friends, on a date or attending with family, this event will have something for everyone.
Lightscape has a compelling magic that lures us into onto a journey that feels fresh and is reimagined every year which never fails to impress those in attendance. This year was no different, with the trail unveiling new wonders of lights and installations that has soundscapes which will leave you awestruck. The event itself has never failed to find ways that makes transforming the familiar into something extraordinary. From pushing boundaries, to embracing innovation and mix mediums, Lightscape has delivered an experience that showcases the creativity of all the artists behind them.
Effervescence was this year’s largest installation, spanning across the ground with thousands of individual LED lights. These lights shifted in colour and danced to the soundwaves, creating stunning and immersive lights that rippled through the space. It was a captivating visual experience that had our eyes dancing to the beat.
Lightscape has the compelling ability to continuously enrich and mesmerise audiences through powerful storytelling, and this is seen especially through the art installation called Water Stories. This installation not only honours culture and tradition but invites deeper reflection through their striking visual presence. What were originally acrylic paintings were brought to life through animation by NOVAK. Illuminated projections of traditional artform gracefully drifted across the surface of the water of different Australian native creatures. This moving tribute created a serene, dreamlike moment along the trail as if we are a part of a Dream Walk. Water Stories was created by Various First Peoples Though The Torch and paid homage to the Birrarung. It was really a perfect place to pause mid-walk and enjoy a bite to eat in the Food Hall.
Unlike previous years, this time there was one installation that made us pause and it wasn’t because of dazzling lights or the enchanting soundscapes but because of their powerful messages they carried. Seeds of Hope by Jeanine Leane had us stopping in our tracks to read, reflect and absorb her words. It was a thoughtful and moving piece that invited spectators to pause amid the sensory spectacle. What’s also worth noting is that at each installation, Lightscape also includes not the name and artist of each piece but also a QR code. This allows curious visitors to dive deeper into the stories and inspirations behind each work.
During our attendance, we were fortunate to have the weather on our side. While the evening air was chilling, being dressed warmly and surrounded by good company, quickly brought a sense of warmth as we made our way along the trail. And for those looking to add a little extra warmth to the experience, the mulled wine (available to those of legal drinking age) is a delightful treat to enjoy as you take in the lights. Much as the fairy floss for a bit of a sugar rush to keep your energy going. A gentle reminder as always, if you are planning to drive home, please drink responsibly!
In comparison to the previous year, this year’s Lightscape has truly been one of accessibility and inclusivity, with thoughtful accommodation to individuals with light sensory sensitivities. The installations felt more balanced, with gentler transitions and softer lighting in key areas that lit the trail. It almost felt intentional how the trail was designed and the placement of the installations carefully curated around the Royal Botanical Gardens which ensured that everyone could enjoy the beauty of Lightscape.
Lightscape is currently on in Melbourne at The Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria until August 10th. You will find the entrance to Lightscape via the Observatory Gate. Parking is limited, so if you are taking the tram down, the closest stops are the Shrine of Remembrance stop and Anzac Station on St Kilda Road.
For more information, visit:
https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/lightscape
Photography by Grant Alexander.
