Spectra 2015
Droplets by Ulf Pedersen, at Union Terrace Gardens
Aberdeen City Centre
February 2015
Spectra Light Festival was established in Aberdeen to improve the city’s cultural offer in the quiet winter months. Curated Place were appointed to lead the 2015 festival from concept to delivery as it underwent a step-change in ambition. The Festival objectives were to attract national and international attention, boost the evening economy and appeal to broad audiences by creating a family friendly atmosphere bringing economic and social benefits to the city.
Curated Place managed the development of eighteen light installations and a comprehensive public engagement programme for the festival, from commissioning to delivery. With the client the team developed a fundraising strategy, established a steering group and delivered a series of accessible, playful artworks throughout Union Terrace Gardens in the city centre, creating an engaging family friendly event in the night time economy.
Programme development
The spectacular, free to attend event delivered a series of major artworks with 22 artists participated in the festival creating an exciting programme of events inspired by the magic of the Aurora Borealis and the Norse spirit that connects the cultures of the north.
Curated Place developed and delivered a series of major new art works bringing together artists from Scotland, Iceland, Faroe Island, Denmark, Norway and England. The project brought together experienced light artists, technicians and composers enabling them to realise works of scale, as well as providing a platform for experimentation and professional development of established visual artists seeking to develop their practice into the realms of lighting and the public-realm.
Audience engagement
The engagement and educational programme was developed and delivered in collaboration with Seventeen, Aberdeen’s Creative Hub, Make Aberdeen, the Maritime Museum and local schools - ensuring ties to Aberdeen’s cultural heritage and strengths.
Marketing
Curated Place worked closely with the appointed marketing agency to ensure the delivery of an engaging marketing strategy tying in with the overall thematic thrust of the festival.
Spectra 2015 was commissioned by Aberdeen City Council
