The Old Naval College in Greenwich, London, has been transformed into a light show like no other – don’t miss it
The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
For more than 600 years it has been standing proud on the banks of River Thames, a testament to Great Britain’s naval might. And at it’s very height lies the Painted Hall, a 300 year old work of art, one of the most magnificent Baroque interiors in Europe.
From the two towering domes, to the glorious chapel, the naval college, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the mastermind behind St Paul’s Cathedral, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
However, during this month this stunning piece of architecture, art and history is transformed into something truly magical when Luxmuralis returns to illuminate the iconic site with Lost Worlds.
Described as a spectacular new light and sound installation inspired by the civilisations, myths and natural wonders of the ancient world, it was created by acclaimed sculptor and artist Peter Walker, with an original score by composer David Harper.
Stepping inside this magical space is always special but when it’s illuminated on such a grand scale with a stunning light show which reimagines the artistic achievements of the Etruscans, Egyptians, Romans, Mayans and Anglo-Saxons you are transported to another time and place.
Shapes, sounds and movements envelope anyone walking through this incredible homage to human accomplishment in one of the most breathtaking settings imaginable.
From the peacefully lit chalk walk, visitors emerge into a moving collage of light and shapes, almost like stepping into a gigantic kaleidoscope – and that’s just the start. Spend time fully immersing yourself in the sensations of light and sound, almost feeling as though you yourself are moving through time and space before heading on to the show stopped in the Old Naval College chapel.
This already stunning space is filled for just a few evenings only with thousands of years of history – right back to the dinosaurs – erupting in a riot of colour all around, and accompanied by a magical soundtrack.
Travel through lost civilisations, medieval manuscripts, early explorers maps, cave paintings, mythical kingdoms, the natural world and both the industrial and technological revolutions.
Next, step outside to see Christopher Wren’s imposing domes bathed in light and shapes and make sure to take a moment to really take in the splendour of both the buildings and the images projected onto them on such a gigantic scale.
Luxmuralis ends in the awe-inspiring Painted Hall, completed in 1726 by Sir James Thornhill. Take a moment to absorb it all and wonder at the majesty of both the Old Naval College and the installation.
Lost Worlds forms part of the Old Royal Naval College’s ongoing creative collaboration with acclaimed artist Peter Walker. Alongside Walker’s forthcoming Peace Doves installation, these bespoke projections are among a series of major artistic commissions marking the Painted Hall’s 300th anniversary.
Peter Walker, Artistic Director of Luxmuralis said:” It is a real privilege to return to the Old Royal Naval College with a new work. The Painted Hall is one of the most extraordinary spaces in Britain, and every time we create here, we discover something new within its architecture and history.
“With ‘Lost Worlds’, we want to invite people of every age and background to step into a place of wonder, to leave the everyday behind and become completely immersed in light, sound and storytelling. Whether visitors are fascinated by ancient civilisations, mythology, art or simply the experience of being surrounded by colour and music, I hope they feel a sense of curiosity and connection. For me, the greatest reward is seeing people share that journey together and experience this remarkable space in an entirely new way.”
Luxmuralis runs from November 6 – 8 and 11 – 15. For tickets, visit the Old Naval College website.
