Proudly made in Durham, Lumiere is set to return for four nights from 18th – 21st November 2021. Produced by arts charity Artichoke, the UK’s leading creative producer of art in the public realm, and commissioned by Durham County Council, with additional support from Arts Council England, Durham University and a host of further funders and supporters, the festival will feature a brand new spectacular programme of artworks and installations.
Experts in producing outdoor events, Artichoke will ensure appropriate measures are in place to ensure that audiences can enjoy the festival safely in accordance with guidelines around COVID-19.
Over 1 million people have attended Lumiere in its ten year history, and the festival’s economic impact has grown year-on-year, bringing visitors into the city and boosting local businesses, and placing Durham in the world’s spotlight. Over 10,000 local people and schoolchildren have benefitted from involvement in Lumiere’s learning and participation programmes and volunteering opportunities since 2009, developing their skills and having a great time in the process.
For the last Lumiere festival Hargreaves Land donated three metric tonnes of charcoal to power one of the festival’s spectacular light installations. This year the company is proud to be supporting the event again as a member of its Business Club.
David Anderson, Group property Director at Hargreaves Land said: “As a local company with a longstanding heritage in the Durham area we are keen to support Lumiere as it is such an important cultural event for our local area, which brings significant positive social and economic benefits. We look forward to seeing the artworks and installations which I am sure will be a fantastic experience for residents and visitors, especially after what has been a difficult time for so many.”
Helen Marriage, Director of Artichoke said: “This amazing free event has developed its worldwide reputation only because local and regional businesses, organisations and individuals recognise its value and contribute to making it happen. The festival is made with and for its community.”
Photo credit: Fool’s Paradise, Novak, Lumiere Durham 2019. Produced by Artichoke. Photo by Matthew Andrews