As part of the We Shine festival in Portsmouth this stunner of a light show ran for 4 nights. An interactive light show exploring the mystery and wonder of the sea.
This coastal town has a deep relationship with the water, it’s residents living on its cusp and many locals working in nautical industries. The concept of a symbiotic relationship between the city and the ocean is deeply rooted in its history and is treasured by the people who live there.
The beautiful cathedral hosted the event, moments away from Old Portsmouth, an area soaked in watery history. The arches and corridors lit up with a blue and green glow to give a sense of submersion and adventure.
A fully kitted diver strolling around in the church, investigating the under sea space and inviting you to become a part of his dive experience with dramatic bubble, ocean creature noises and sounds was delightful. Watching him glide towards you and then glimpsing up to see a giant coral, school of fish or octopus tentacle illuminate the cathedral walls and ceiling was magical.
As a diver myself I related to how it feels to be underwater, to hear your own breath and explore the unknown. To never know what will swim past you or what you might find. The sea is just like space, a totally alien environment in which we rely on our equipment to keep us alive. A space that at times can be daunting and nerve wracking and a World that must always be respected.
The audio and visuals combined created a feeling of belonging. It was lovely to be in this stunning church and it was even more lovely to be reminded of a place I love so much and spend so much time.
The collection of people that came together to make this exhibition and sensory experience possible captured the essence of the sea. They got people excited about the water and thinking about threats against it. The community participated in exhibits inside the church, wading through sea kelp and investigating the tiniest of rock and coral formations. It was beautiful.
