Weston-super-Mare Glow light festival returns

14 February 2024

Emma HallettBBC News, West of England

News image — 'In the Balance' has been created by Felix Rowberry and the families who are part of South Weston Activities Network

Paul Blakemore Sculpture that resembles a child's cot mobile at Glow — 'In the Balance' has been created by Felix Rowberry and the families who are part of South Weston Activities Network

Glow light festival has returned to Weston-super-Mare for the third year to illuminate the town.

More than 25 light installations have been placed at the festival's main site at Grove Park - including showcase commissions and community collaborations.

The park has been transformed by a variety of stunning installations - from a large-scale kinetic fire sculpture, microscopic world and an interactive Wood Wide Web to a UV garden, bug world and a disco bandstand.

BBC Sign that reads glow — It is the third year Glow has been put on in Weston

One of the main centre-pieces is a large-scale commission named 'In the Balance', which has been created by Felix Rowberry and the families who are part of South Weston Activities Network based in Bournville.

The pay-what-you-decide event has been expanded to run over five nights and is on until Saturday.

BBC Weston-based artist and producer Paula Birtwistle — Glow is conceived and designed by Weston-based artist and producer Paula Birtwistle

The light festival, organised by Super Culture, is conceived and designed by Weston-based artist and producer Paula Birtwistle.

"Glow is returning in full technicolour glory for its biggest event so far," Ms Birtwistle said.

"Not only will Grove Park be magically transformed, but the fun will spill out into the town with a variety of interactive, sensory installations, creating a playful, multi-coloured trail.

"It is very much a community festival that Westoners have taken to their hearts."

BBC Crowds looking at a wine glass shaped light sculpture — Celebrating the theme of 'Play in Nature', Glow shines a light on Weston's landscape

Chairman of Weston Town Council's heritage arts and culture committee, John Crockford-Hawley, added: "GLOW is a really special festival.

"The event has grown year-on-year to become a popular annual favourite that attracts thousands from near and far.

"With Glow 24's exceptional programme, we are looking forward to welcoming many thousands of visitors to the town."

BBC Light sculpture which includes smiley faces at the event — Local and internationally-renowned artists have been commissioned to provide pieces for the festival

BBC Fountain surrounded by glass balls lit up in orange and red — The event includes a "dancing" fountain

BBC Light sculptures which include green, orange and pink strobe lighting — The pay-what-you-decide event has been expanded to runs until Saturday

BBC Blue, purple, orange and green coloured mushrooms — The festival is encouraging people to engage with the natural environment

Paul Blakemore A lit up sculpture of a cow in front of trees — Artworks will also highlight creative use of repurposing materials and stimulate debate around climate change

BBC Large tree with a pink swing and red swing for people to use — The event includes a variety of interactive and sensory installations

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