i Light Singapore Returns: Illuminating Art, Sustainability, and Culture

Irone Kim

May 29

i Light Singapore (iLSG) is set to celebrate its 10th edition, transforming Marina Bay, South Beach, Millenia Walk, and Tanjong Pagar into a dazzling showcase of 17 light art installations. Organized by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and supported by partners like Marina Bay Sands, UOB, and Alibaba Cloud, this year's festival emphasizes sustainable living through its vibrant artworks and engaging programs.

A Showcase of Cyclical Nature

Featuring 25 artists from 11 countries, the festival's theme of "Cyclical Nature" highlights the endless potential of everyday objects for redesign, restoration, and repurposing. The color green, symbolizing renewal, is a prominent motif throughout the installations.

Highlights Along the Marina Bay Waterfront

Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS: At The Promontory at Marina Bay, this installation creates an immersive urban garden inspired by the Japanese art of Iwagumi.
Fish are Jumping by Studio Toer: Located near the lower boardwalk, this piece captures the simple wonders of nature as leaping "fish" cast intricate light patterns.
Arc ZERO: Nimbus by Studio James Tapscott: Encircling the floating pontoon near the Red Dot Design Museum, this misty ring installation reflects on the essential elements of life - water, air, and light.

New Experiences

The i Light River Cruise Shuttle Service offers a scenic tour of the waterfront installations, available on weekends and public holidays, providing a unique perspective of the illuminated cityscape.

Interactive Artworks

Dandelion by Amigo & Amigo: Presented by Marina Bay Sands at the Event Plaza, this installation features a symphony of light and music, inspired by the dance of dandelion petals.
Fountain of Happiness by 27June Studio: At Clifford Square, this installation includes swings and light tubes that illuminate with each movement, creating a joyous display of colors.
Alchemy of Atmospheres by Janez Grošelj: At The Lawn beside NTUC Building, this green-lit artwork highlights the impact of human actions on the climate.

International Collaborations

Pure Ring by Xu Dongliang and Toryo International Lighting Design Center: Previously showcased at Glow Shenzhen, this installation at Event Square features illuminated seats that change color with occupancy, fostering moments of connection.
BOB the nice world by BOB the nice guy: Displayed near Marina Bay Link Mall, this giant inflatable exudes whimsical charm while promoting climate change awareness.

Engaging Programs and Activities

The festival offers a variety of events to inspire sustainable living:

GastroBeats: Located at Bayfront Event Space, featuring over 200 food options, family-friendly games, and live music.
The Conscious Festival x iLSG: Includes wellness workshops, a marketplace for conscious brands, and the Conscious Concert with performances by sound and light artist Natural Symphony.
i Quest: A gamified initiative where visitors can win prizes by scanning QR codes at designated checkpoints to light up virtual firefly colonies.
'Switch Off, Turn Up' Campaign: Encourages building owners to reduce energy consumption by switching off non-essential lighting and optimizing air-conditioning.

Educational Opportunities

i Light Forum: Offers insights into how design and lighting can shape a sustainable future.
Guided Tours: Uncover the creative stories behind the installations with tours by Let's Go Tour Singapore.
Community Green Market: Discover artisanal crafts from homegrown brands and enjoy music powered by a solar-powered audio system at this pop-up street market.

Event Details

i Light Singapore 2024 runs from May 31 to June 23, from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM daily, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission is free, with charges applicable for certain programs.