Get ready for an exciting Spectra Festival in Aberdeen featuring stunning light displays and interactive art from talented artists
Aberdeen: This year’s Spectra Festival is shaping up to be something special. Picture this: an award-winning Scottish artist, a 50-metre sensory walkway, and a vibrant fungal network lighting up the city. Sounds cool, right?
Set to take place next month, the festival will showcase the work of Scottish illustrator Johanna Basford, famous for her adult coloring books. It’s all happening in the heart of Aberdeen!
Now in its 11th year, this free festival is packed with exciting events and art from a variety of talented creators. Expect 15 stunning light installations, fire performances, and live music to fill the streets from February 6 to 9.
One highlight will be the iconic ‘Hollywood letters’ getting a special makeover for the festival. They’ll be moved to Broad Street, right outside Marischal College, making for a perfect photo op!
St Nicholas Kirk will also get a dazzling upgrade during the festival. Plus, Aberdeen Inspired is teaming up with the city council to make this event unforgettable.
One of the standout pieces is by Council Baby, who won the Royal Scottish Academy’s Benno Schotz Prize. Her installation, ‘Fit D’You Know About the Bon Accord?’, will be projected at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, showcasing the city’s rich history through animated stained glass designs.
And if you’re into interactive art, you’ll love the giant coloring wall featuring Basford’s designs in Union Terrace Gardens. Visitors can color in her artwork, which will glow under neon lights!
There’s also a heartbeats installation that captures the pulse of Aberdonians, and a 50m walkway that plays with light and dark to change how we see space. How cool is that?
Other attractions include a giant moon tied to a boat and a fiber optic mycelium network that represents the hidden connections in nature. It’s all about creativity and community!
Councillor Martin Greig is excited about this year’s festival, saying it’s going to be a memorable experience for everyone. He’s thrilled to see so many artists showcasing their work in Aberdeen.
Council Baby’s artwork tells the story of Aberdeen’s past, from ancient times to the present. She wants viewers to connect with the city’s history and imagine its future.
Using a smartphone app, visitors can unlock interactive pieces around the city, adding a fun twist to the experience. Plus, there will be storytelling sessions and illuminated art from local schools.
Adrian Watson from Aberdeen Inspired believes the festival will draw thousands of people to the city, boosting local businesses. The iconic letters will be a major attraction, and he’s sure they’ll be a hit on social media!
With support from EventScotland and local sponsors, the festival is set to be a fantastic winter experience. Last year, over 100,000 people attended, contributing millions to the local economy.
So, mark your calendars for Spectra 2025! It’s going to be a dazzling celebration of light and art that you won’t want to miss.
