Phase Two of ‘City of Light’ project, Imbolc, launched at Waterford Gallery of Art
Imbolc, Phase Two of the ‘City of Light’ project was launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan on Friday, January 30th in the Waterford Gallery of Art on O’Connell Street.
The City of Light project was delivered by Waterford City and County Council, with funding from Fáilte Ireland’s Urban Animation Scheme. This creative initiative illuminates some of Waterford city’s iconic buildings and medieval walls across 19 strategic locations.
The trail which is visible on city maps acts as a unique way to experience Waterford city enjoying the rich and diverse experiences along the way. The light projections act as a thread of creativity across Waterford city linking the historical Viking Triangle, the lively Apple Market, Waterford’s city walls, the retail sector and the vivacious Cultural Quarter.
On the evening Mayor Ryan remarked, “This second phase is shaped around the theme of Imbolc, a moment in the calendar that speaks to renewal, light returning, and the quiet promise of spring. It is a theme deeply rooted in our seasonal traditions and one that resonates strongly with the purpose of City of Lights: to reflect our heritage while reimagining it in contemporary and engaging ways.
“Each artist brings a distinct voice and approach, and together their work captures the spirit of Imbolc in a way that is both thoughtful and visually striking.”
Mayor Ryan also extended his thanks to the artists involved in this theme; Darragh Lyons, Anne McDonnell, Karen Nolan, Brian O’Shea and Vadim Taranenko.
Ali Jay from Waterford City and County Council commented, “This year’s theme, Imbolc, feels especially fitting. It marks the turning of the year, when light begins to return, winter loosens its grip, and we start to look toward brighter days.
“Seeing the projections cutting through the darkness genuinely feels like a glimpse of those brighter evenings ahead, capturing everything Imbolc stands for; renewal, creativity, and fresh beginnings.”
The light trail is located, and is accessible, on the Art & Culture section of the newly designed Visit Waterford website https://visitwaterford.com/ and allows users to orientate themselves around the city while enjoying the illuminations.
As Waterford shines under the ‘City of Light,’ Waterford City and County Council, alongside Fáilte Ireland, looks forward to welcoming all to a brighter and more animated city centre experience.
