When the sun goes down and the stars come out, what does light mean to us mortals? Pop over to Federation Square and discover the meaning of light through the event ‘The Light in Winter‘ curated by Robyn Archer, artistic director of local and international arts festivals and well-renowned Australian theatre legend.

Photo: Julie Renouf

Celebrating Australian Community and shared cultural experiences through light installations, Indigenous storytelling, projections and torch-led tours along with free concerts and film screenings. In conjunction with the Environmental Sustainability Policy of Federation Square, wind-generated Green Power provides all energy used to power each event and installation for The Light in Winter.

Photo: Julie Renouf

The piece du resistance of this landmark event is the worlds largest spherical balloon, aptly titled ‘Solar Equation’ situated in the centre of the square. Created specifically for the event by Mexican-Canadian installation artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, it is also his first time exhibiting in Australia. Popular for his thought-provoking interactive installations, ‘Solar Equation’ is a large dream-like 3D structure simulating the Sun, brightly glowing onto the buildings and those standing nearby. An array of sunburnt colours and intricate designs are reflected through 5 projectors, emulating the unique colour and shape variety seen on the surface of the Sun. The projected animation is generated by unique live mathematical equations controlled in real time by the viewer and their iPhone, IPod Touch or IPad.

Photo: Marcel Aucar

Reflecting recent advances and discoveries made in astronomy, relax and enjoy the ‘Solar Equation’ on any evening in the centre of the city. Striped beach chairs have also been ironically and conveniently placed directly in front, where you can put your feet up after a long day and enjoy the light performance in a front row seat.

Federation Square Night Installation ‘The Light in Winter’
Date: 4th June – 4th July 2010
Place: Federation Square, corner Swanston and Flinders Street, Melbourne
https://www.fedsquare.com/thelightinwinter/