I have to say, I’m not usually a big fan of light festivals—not because I don’t enjoy looking at light art, but because these days, festivals are so commercialised and toned down that the kind of “art” I appreciate often has no space left. Everything has to be “immersive,” and animated walls seem to be the go-to…
That’s why I was even more pleased last night in Schaffhausen. Yes, they showed lots of pieces that have been seen around Europe before, but it was a really nicely curated exhibition of light art!
The absolute highlight for me was the piece shown in the cathedral: End of Dark, a laser installation by Margareta Hesse (DE). It was a bit of a shame it was so crowded in there, but it was truly impressive how she transformed the space with those red beams!
Another very cool installation was right next to the cathedral, in the Kreuzgang: Tentacles by Ausgang Studios (EU). It reminded me a lot of the Borg from Star Trek—pretty intense and a bit scary. as it showed who technology takes control over you…
And that’s what it’s all about: light art should tickle your senses, make you think, move you, make you reflect…
Which brings me to the piece by my dear friend Shaba Dreher from Schaffhausen. Her work, Reviver, set on the river shore, offers a contrasting message to these busy times we live in—reconnecting and slowing down. And what works better for that than light casting from the shore, reflecting in the slow water in front of it?
