Melbourne is fond of a good light show, particularly when the temperatures drop and the nights start to get a little darker. Here to add to the city’s illuminated winter calendar is newly-announced Rialto Aglow. The free, after-dark lights festival will take over the Rialto Piazza, nestled in an intersection of Collins, Flinders and King Streets in the CBD.
Head down from 5pm between 19 July–29 July to see the public precinct transformed with interactive light installations, large-scale projection artwork and appropriately themed food and bevvies. Highlights include Amigo & Amigo studio’s Accordion, comprised of six interactive, oversized archways inspired by the instrument of the same. Meanwhile, the same studio will pay tribute to the cycles of the moon with Lunar Lamp Posts, a brand-new large-scale installation with over 40 different sounds and illuminated animations.
Image: Amigo & Amigo’s Affinity at Illuminate Adelaide
“Bringing light artworks into public spaces creates safe spaces and changes the fabric of our city, inviting discovery and play from audiences of all ages.” Amigo & Amigo Director Simone Chua says. “Our mission is to inspire play and cultural connection with our works. We love to create destinations in unusual or unexpected places that spark curiosity and joy.”
Beloved Melbourne-based neon light artist Carla O’Brien, whose previous works appeared at Burning Man and White Night, will also pop-up throughout the ten-day festival. Rialto Aglow will host works including Neon Play The Music, a fun and playful live instrument installation, and Double Rainbow Love Heart Archway, set to be an irresistible social media snapping opportunity.
The Rialto Aglow Winter Lights Festival is part of the Melbourne City Revitalisation Fund, granting funding for after-dark activities to all to give the night-time economy a hefty boost.
Image: Rialto for Daffodil Day.
Rialto Aglow will run from Wednesday, 19 July to Saturday, 29 July from 5pm until late at Rialto Piazza. Live entertainment kicks off from 6pm–9pm daily, and entry is free.
Images: supplied.