Art After Dark brings disco lights to West End

A free public art and music festival celebrating nightlife across the West End is returning to the capital for its fourth year.

Art After Dark will see Piccadilly Circus become home to a 7m-tall (23ft) tower of stacked disco lightboxes, playing music inspired by London's 80s and 90s club culture.

Running from 3 to 10 February, the art week will see galleries host late-night openings, with The National Gallery hosting a one-off DJ event. Digital artworks will also be displayed on screens across the West End.

Kirsty Tullett-Jones, from Art of London, said: "We want Londoners and visitors alike to feel the buzz, share the joy, and be part of something unforgettable in the heart of the capital."

London-based artist Lakwena Maciver, who is behind the Piccadilly Circus tower "Rise and Shine", said the installation was a "celebration of joy, community, and the vibrant energy that pulses through London's music scene".

"By unveiling it in Piccadilly Circus, we're inviting everyone to gather, dance, and experience London's music culture in a space transformed by colour, light, and sound," Maciver said.

"I'm looking forward to bringing people together to celebrate and support the culture that defines our city."

Art After Dark has previously featured eye‑catching installations across the West End.

As part of last year's edition, there were large illuminated sculptures of asteroid-sized moon rocks and giant fluorescent cats by artist and designer Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian.

Westminster Council Labour councillor Ryan Jude, cabinet member for culture, said: "Initiatives like this showcase London's vibrant cultural scene in some of the city's most iconic locations, making the arts accessible for all to enjoy."

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