Downtown Raleigh Alliance’s Illuminate Art Walk Presented by Wake Tech Returns to Downtown Raleigh
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 29, 2022
Media Contact –
Lauren Barnett
Director of Marketing and Communications, Downtown Raleigh Alliance
laurenbarnett@downtownraleigh.org
919.821.6976
Downtown Raleigh Alliance’s Illuminate Art Walk Presented by Wake Tech Returns to Downtown Raleigh
Features internationally-acclaimed Sonic Runway by creators Rob Jensen and Warren Trezevant
RALEIGH, NC –Downtown Raleigh Alliance (DRA) is once again lighting up Downtown with Illuminate Art Walk, presented by Wake Tech. The project, in its third year, transforms plazas, storefronts and other public spaces with large-scale, interactive and light-based art pieces that are one-of-a-kind and family-friendly.
DRA commissioned more than 10 pieces from local, regional and international artists in an effort to create a holiday light experience that is eclectic, creative and inspiring. The majority of pieces will be located in the Fayetteville Street district and several along Glenwood South. The installations shine nightly from December 2, 2022 to January 14, 2023.
A highlight of this year's month-long event is Sonic Runway, a light-art installation that converts audio signals into patterns of light that shoot down a 342 to 432 ft (105 to 132 meters) corridor of 20 to 25 LED lined arches at the speed of sound, created by Rob Jensen and Warren Trezevant. The tour production team is Creos and the installation is owned by Zamboom, LLC.
At the front of the Runway, the observers see musical sound waves rippling away from them. Walking down the corridor, sound and light are always in sync. Looking back from the far end, walkers can see the sound waves coming at them and hear the music as the pattern reaches them.
“We are thrilled for the return of Illuminate to Downtown Raleigh. This is an artistic city, full of creative people, and it’s the perfect place to bring a walkable light show that sparks imaginations,” said Bill King, President and CEO of Downtown Raleigh Alliance. “We are grateful for Wake Tech, whose presenting sponsorship not only makes Illuminate possible this year, it brings energy and life to the project. Whether you’re sipping and strolling, shopping, dining or looking for something free to do with a family, Illuminate is essential to the holidays in Downtown Raleigh.”
“Small businesses and a thriving downtown are vital to Raleigh, and Illuminate Art Walk is a spectacular addition during the holiday season,” said Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls. “We are excited to partner with the Downtown Raleigh Alliance for a second year on this interactive, light-based, family- friendly art experience.”
“Raleigh Arts is proud to partner with the DRA for the third annual Illuminate Art Walk. Illuminate is an innovative and creative program that invites visitors downtown to experience light-based public art and explore downtown in the evening during the winter season,” said Sarah Powers, Executive Director, Office of Raleigh Arts at City of Raleigh, “The Illuminate Art Walk also supports local, regional, and international artists by commissioning, installing, and promoting their work to new audiences.
Illuminate opens to the public on First Friday, December 2, 2022. DRA will host a welcome celebration in City Plaza from 6-8pm with special performers, giveaways and more.
Illuminate Art Walk is free, self-guided and walkable. An interactive map and more information can be found at www.DowntownRaleigh.org/Illuminate
Illuminate is presented by Wake Tech and generously supported by Raleigh Arts.
About Downtown Raleigh Alliance
DRA’s mission is: Advancing the vitality of Downtown Raleigh for everyone. The DRA facilitates this mission through five goals: 1) Building a culture of authentic engagement and inclusion with Downtown’s diverse community; 2) Fostering a thriving and diverse storefront economy; 3) Facilitating strategic partnerships to produce positive, balanced activations across Downtown; 4) Improving physical connectivity and accessibility within and around Downtown; 5) Positioning the DRA as reliable, responsive, representative, and mission-directed.
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