Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne returns this winter, bringing some extra sparkle with internationally acclaimed local artist Sarah Hudson (Ngāti Awa, Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Pūkeko) creating a light installation.
Ms Hudson is part of Mataaho Collective, a group of four Māori female artists who recently won one of the world's most sought-after prizes in the art world - the Golden Lion for their immersive installation Takapau at the Venice Biennale International Exhibition.
Arts Whakatāne Chairperson Sue Whale says Sarah is an exceptionally talented artist with her roots in the Eastern Bay.
"We’re so happy that she’s submitted an artwork for the light festival this year. Much of the festival is about fostering and celebrating local and national artists so it’s a real coup to have Sarah on board.”
From 26 July to 4 August a selection of light art installations, sculptures and digital displays will again be showcased throughout the Whakatāne town centre, parks and along the riverfront. Returning to support the light trail are interactive workshops, pop-up community events and the very popular opening ceremony and light parade.
Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne is brought together through a collaboration between Whakatāne District Council, EPIC Town Centre Whakatāne and Arts Whakatāne. Working together, the three organisations aim to build community spirit and bring vibrancy to the town centre during winter, while supporting town centre businesses.
Last year's event drew crowds of over 9,000 people, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from festival attendees.
EPIC Town Centre Whakatāne board member Terri Wilkins says the festival brings multiple benefits.
“EPIC’s role is to support businesses in the Whakatāne town centre and events act as a catalyst to this, particularly when they’re held during off-peak months. Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne encourages people into the town centre to enjoy festival activities and grab a bite to eat while enjoying late-night shopping.
“Not only is local spend crucial for our businesses, but the visitor market is incredibly important too. Last year the festival attracted visitors from Central North Island regions and we’d love to welcome more out-of-towners this year,” she says.
Whakatāne District Council Events Advisor Kim Fort says the event’s success is the result of effective collaboration and putting the community at the heart of festival activations.
“Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne is about bringing people together to celebrate the arts, provide enjoyment through the winter months and appreciate the uniqueness of our town centre and significant landmarks. By working with key stakeholders, we hope to tell richer stories of our place through light interactions.
“We’re absolutely thrilled that Trust Horizon continues to support the event as naming rights funding partner. They have been aligned with our vision for the festival from the outset and we couldn’t do it without them,” she says.
Light Up Whakatāne is free to attend, running from 26 July to 4 August. Festival community nights are scheduled for opening night on Friday 26 July and to wrap up the festival on 3 August.
Community nights include illuminated dance and theatre performances, kapa haka, street performers, the Lights On parade, food trucks and a pop-up bar. Community groups interested in being involved can contact Kristen Davies lightupwhakatane@gmail.com
For event updates and more information, visit lightupwhakatane.com