The very first i Light in Singapore was held for 3 weeks starting from 15 October 2010 to mark the completion of major developments around Marina Bay. On display across a 3.5km waterfront promenade were innovative energy-efficient light installations by 25 regional and international artists, which were used to promote sustainable lighting technology in the urban environment. Elements of sound and interactivity were also incorporated in some works for added dimension.

i Light Marina Bay 2010 photography competition: “The Whirlpool at Marina Bay” by Andrew Tan Jee Kwong

With a successful first show that saw more than 433,000 visitors, i Light will be back from 9 March to 1 April 2012. The objective for the second festival is to present up to 30 outdoor, site-specific light art installations designed by artists from Asia at the same location in Marina Bay, following the theme “Light Meets Asia”.

Photography competition: “Skyline” by Sebastian Tan

Smart Light founder, Australian-Greek artist, designer, composer and curator Mary-Anne Kyriakou, who is also the festival’s creator, will once again be directing the event.

“The reason I created the festival in the first place was to connect with like-minded artists and share ideas that would also support ecological solutions… The festival promotes dark city skies and the other side of the city experience – atmosphere and beauty,” says Kyriakou.

“It also aims to encourage the creative industry to rethink artificial light in city environments and embody sustainable practices in their projects.”

Photos by Jurgen Brinkmann

Kyriakou’s Smart Light programme distinguishes itself from other similar festivals with its sole use of efficient and ecological light systems. LED and other new technologies are also used to demonstrate the possibilities in natural and urban environments.

Photography competition: “Recycling Wonderland” by Tan Seng Vui

Photography competition: Photo by Goh Hanlin

On next year’s theme of “Light meets Asia”, Kyriakou says the idea is “for artists to engage the finer grain of light in Asian culture” through “history, aesthetics, community and social values”.

The number of programmes and fringe activities, which in 2010 included night picnics, a photography competition and symposium, will also be expanded.

Photography competition: Photo by Victor Hew

Besides Singapore, the Smart Light festival has also been held in Sydney, and Kyriakou is also working on bringing the festival to China, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, and cities in Europe.

Photo by Jurgen Brinkmann

i Light Marina Bay 2012 is currently calling for artist participation. Proposals should consider public interactivity, energy-efficient lighting technology, and the use of recycled materials. For enquiries and proposal submissions, email ken_lee@ura.gov.sg

For more information about Smart Light Singapore, visit www.smartlightsingapore.com

Top image: Photography competition – “Octopus City” by Carol Gan Seok Fen