‘Light Eternal’ is coming to Gloucester Cathedral this autumn

(Image: Created by Luxmuralis)

Between Thursday 19 October and Saturday 28 October 2023, visitors are invited to come and experience Gloucester Cathedral like never before. This medieval space will be transformed by a light and sound installation, with dazzling projections throughout the building. Light Eternal: Yesterday, Today, Forever will take visitors on a journey that delves into the Cathedral’s 1000-year-long history, examining its breathtaking architecture and stained glass, as well as its more recent life as a famous filming location. From scripture adorning the walls of the Cloister through to choral music sheets illuminating the Quire, there will be spectacular projections around every corner, accompanied by an atmospheric soundtrack.

The installation has been created by the world-renowned projection art gallery, Luxmuralis, which is a collaborative team combining artists from different backgrounds and disciplines. Luxmuralis has been touring cathedrals and other historic spaces throughout the UK, but ‘Light Eternal’ is a brand-new show - completely unique to Gloucester Cathedral - that promises to ignite the imaginations of visitors from the moment they step inside the building.

Peter Walker, Lead Artist and Artistic Director at Luxmuralis, said:

"We are delighted to bring our work to one of the world’s most remarkable buildings. We will be illuminating the ancient walls, aisles, floor to ceiling, something never seen before in Gloucester Cathedral, with contemporary light and sound artworks. Indeed, nearly every inch of the interior will be alive with images of the Cathedral’s past and present, told through beautiful abstract storytelling, accompanied by a series of remarkable sound artworks. There's nothing quite like our interior cathedral installations, and this October in Gloucester will be one of the largest immersive works that we have produced."

Tickets to come and see this remarkable showcase are now on sale. General admission costs £9.50 for adults and £6 for children (6-17 years, under 6s go free), and first entry will be at 6.15pm with last entry at 8.45pm. For those who want to make their experience even more memorable, ‘VIP tickets’ are available. These are priced at £20 for adults and £15 for children, and give visitors access to the Cathedral’s historic Bridge Chapel and Tribune Gallery, which are located up high above the Lady Chapel and Quire. From here, you’ll have an unparalleled, exclusive view of the installation, with a glass of fizz or a non-alcoholic drink to complete your evening. Further information, including how to purchase your tickets, can be found on the Cathedral’s website: https://gloucestercathedral.org.uk/whats-on/light-eternal-by-luxmuralis

Refreshments will also be available to purchase during the installation, as well as souvenirs from your visit.

The Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, said:

“I am delighted that Gloucester Cathedral will host the Light Eternal installation this October, and all are warmly invited to come and experience it. We hope that that the spectacular light projections and accompanying soundtrack will showcase the Cathedral’s mission as an enduring sacred space, reflecting the light and love of Christ to all people yesterday, today, and forever.”

Lorna Giles, Head of Visitor Experience at Gloucester Cathedral, added:

“The Luxmuralis team have created something incredibly special in Light Eternal. Taking inspiration from our fascinating historical archive, our beautiful architecture and stained glass and our links to some of the Harry Potter movies, the installation brings our heritage to life and shows this glorious space in a new light. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for all the family, and we can’t wait for you to come and see it!”