Blackpool Illuminations, frequently described as The ‘greatest free light show on earth’ has been a major part of Blackpool’s attraction since 1879 when they were described as ‘Artificial Sunshine’.
There are six miles of traditional festoons, features and tableaux
along the Promenade every evening, from the end of August to
the beginning of January the following year.
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen is the Creative Curator Blackpool Illuminations who’s unique designs are a featured in the illuminations display, including the new Art Deco neon section starting at Central Pier.
In this exhibition, get up close and personal with some favourites from the collection.
Tardis – A replica of the famous Tardis from the BBC tv series
Spaceman – Originally designed for the Space Age road section by Alan Cockcroft in 1970. Get up close and personal with a giant interpretation from the famous moon landing over 50 years ago – they’re out of this world!
Stained Glass – Originally part of the Blackpool Illuminations ‘Leaded Lights’ road section, designed by Graham Ogden in 2004
Portrait of Self – Portrait of self is a deliberately and stylishly surreal statement that suggests that the self-revelatory image of a self-portrait is not always as honest as it seems.
Laying oneself bare artistically is the theoretical purpose of the self portrait in the modern era, but earlier ages were very happy to accept the artist’s depiction of themselves as a paradigm of status, self-worth and as an expression of their artistic ability.
Blackpool Illuminations has its own highly skilled and experienced production team consisting of engineers, technicians, artists, animators and riggers, based at a state of the-art depot, known as ‘Lightworks’ based near Blackpool Airport.
The team have a wealth of experience manufacturing installations using many different types of materials.
