Durham Lumiere returns in 2023

Today marks one year until the return of Lumiere, the UK’s light art biennial.

The free-to-attend, four-day event will take place from 16-19 November 2023 in Durham. Produced by leading arts producers Artichoke and commissioned by Durham County Council, Lumiere will reimagine Durham’s iconic buildings and spaces with a thought-provoking and entertaining new programme of spectacular light artworks and exclusive commissions by

UK and internationally-renowned artists who have something to say about our world. Fundraising for the event is already underway and with plenty of opportunities for local businesses to get involved. Since 2009, Lumiere in Durham has attracted more than one million visitors and stands as a landmark event in the cultural calendar of the North East.

Selected donations made to Lumiere by individuals, new partners and local businesses will be doubled by The Foundation, unlocking additional funds for Lumiere learning and participation programmes and the Foundation’s Poverty Hurts Appeal.

Poverty Hurts will provide year-round support to County Durham families, older people at risk due to cold homes, younger people struggling with mental health and employment issues, and children without warm winter coats.

Beyond the lights, Lumiere’s established learning and participation programme and volunteering opportunities have benefitted over 12,000 local people and schoolchildren since 2009, inspiring ongoing artistic endeavours and providing learning resources.

For Lumiere 2023, these programmes will return, creating new opportunities for the local community to take part in and develop skills, demonstrating County Durham’s creativity on a national platform.

Chief executive of County Durham Community Foundation, Michelle Cooper, says “To support Lumiere is to support one of County Durham’s great treasures an event that brings art, culture and magic to everyone, while enriching local lives throughout the year.”

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, leader of Durham County Council says, “We are delighted to announce the return of Lumiere in 2023. Lumiere demonstrates our commitment to championing culture and culture-led regeneration following our campaign for UK City of Culture 2025. It also provides a huge boost to our economy and helps to strengthen our communities as they come together to experience the festival.

“The chance to come together with friends, family and neighbours is more important than ever in these challenging times. We look forward to working with our partners to ensure next year’s event is as sustainable as possible, supporting our beautiful environment and our commitment to tackling climate change and achieving net zero across the county.”

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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