Akin to the immersive (and photogenic) experiences combining light, art and sound gaining popularity globally, DARKLIGHT is a family-friendly light exhibition to be held in a warehouse space in central Auckland.
Visitors will move through a series of interactive light structures while being enveloped by audio-visual installations. Built around a theme of ‘Descent into Colour,’ the experience starts with stark white light and gradually introduces colour amongst contrasting spaces of light and dark.
The event will also transform into in a one-night-only DJ set and performance, called RESONATE at DARKLIGHT, that will take place in the heart of the exhibition.
The creation of independent lighting designers Angus Muir Design and Dan Move, DARKLIGHT brings together six New Zealand light and sound artists to create the new attraction.
Known for his mesmerising works using light and illumination, Angus Muir’s designs have previously transformed events such as Bright Nights at Auckland’s Viaduct, the Matariki Festival in Auckland and LUMA light festival in Queenstown.
Muir says he wanted to create a journey through light and sound, and have it exist in an indoor environment, unlike previous light festivals here.
“Both Dan and I have been involved in many light festivals and events in New Zealand and the world for over 10 years and this is the culmination of all those experiences and learnings,” he says of the desire to offer something New Zealanders haven’t experienced before.
Muir is excited for visitors to take that journey, particularly embracing the way the space unfolds from stark white light into rich, immersive colour and sound.
“It’s not just about seeing light and hearing sound; it’s about feeling them, being surrounded by them, and becoming part of the artwork”.
He says he now fully understands how crucial sound is. “It’s not just an accompaniment to the visuals but a driving force of immersion. This event really leans into that, with carefully designed soundscapes that evolve alongside the light.”
Of course, being held in Auckland in autumn, the location was also a key consideration.
“What is really great about being indoors, in a controlled exhibition environment is that we don’t have to worry so much about weather, or thousands of kids descending on an artwork. This allows us to create more delicate and intricate works for guests to enjoy.”
He says integrating the music event – RESONATE at DARKLIGHT – has been carefully considered, but is more focused on live music with a strong visual component.
Muir’s work will feature alongside that of Puck Murphy, Lakshman Anandanayagam, Peter Hobbs, Catherine Ellis and Simon Holden.
DARKLIGHT features three sections each inviting a new feeling or idea:
- The Threshold is a serene white-light space promoting ‘purity and introspection, with soft sounds and tonal shifts.’
- A Rift In The Light, introduces colour and disrupted light, signaling a ‘break from purity and the beginning of new possibilities’, accompanied by a deeper, irregular soundscape.
- The Unknown is filled with shifting, intense colours, representing the ‘blossoming of potential, where moments of calm and chaos intertwine.’
Knowledge gleaned from developing work for other events has contributed to the design Muir says, as well as inspiring other aspects like elevated food, drink and entertainment options as well as the main drawcard.
“In past events, I’ve seen how audiences respond best when there’s a balance between structured moments and open-ended exploration. That’s why DARKLIGHT is designed as a journey, where visitors aren’t just passive observers but active participants.”
- DARKLIGHT: A Descent Into Colour, May 2nd- May 4th 2025 with hourly sessions from 10am-10pm.
Brad’s Warehouse, 9-11 Durham Lane, Auckland CBD - RESONATE at DARKLIGHT, Saturday 3rd May, featuring JNETT (Aus), BORROWED CS (live), MUSIC FIRST DJs, PSYCHIC GLANDS (bFM)
