OK, so it’s been a while since I’ve set foot inside a church that isn’t to say I no don’t have faith. I do. Additionally, from an architectural standpoint, I find them stunning to look. Every beam and block showcases devotion and artistry that’s unique to each structure. When I moved to London from Cambridge, St Martins-in-the-Fields always pulled my attention. It was the church I’d take visiting relatives to see and/or dine in the Café in the Crypt. However, I’ve never been inside the church, until recently. I attended the opening night for LIFE, a new immersive sound and light experience in St Martins-in-the-Fields.
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LIFE at St Martins-in-the-Fields
Immersive art light shows are all the rage now. It’s are grandiose and engaging way to make art appreciation more accessible to the masses. The latest show in London, LIFE is currently running at St Martin’s. The church becomes the backdrop to an immersive sound and light experience that celebrates our natural world.
The event runs for 5 days, Tuesday 30th January – Saturday 3rd February 2024. It is designed as a walking journey through earth, sea and sky and suitable for all ages. Luxmuralis Artistic Director Peter Walker says:
“After a remarkable first installation working with St Martin’s last year, we are delighted to be back in 2024 with Life. This is such an iconic building, but it is much more than that. It has been the home of remarkable music, art, and culture for hundreds of years. At Luxmuralis we create the stained-glass windows of our time, bringing to life the stories and concepts of our time in a way that stained glass did generations before. It is wonderful to play a part in the contemporary life of St Martin’s bringing this new artform and adding it to these centuries of artistic and cultural history.”
My Immersive Sound And Light Experience
My daughter and I attended the event together. We paused to look at the light projected murals on St Martin before descending into the crypt. They really set the mood for what was in-store for us inside. From a swirl of astrological signs into a bloom of floral imagery the vibe is phenomenal. The enthusiasm of the infant guests in attendance was infectious. My own daughter though somewhat older also thought ‘it was cool!’
This was my first time ever attending an immersive sound and light experience. While I enjoyed the installation in the crypt, it was the spectacular display in the church that touched my soul. The vibration of sound bouncing off the lofty ceiling coming down on me, while up over-head and in-front of me celestial and oceanic creatures ‘danced’ was awe-inspiring. I’m not going to give it all way, do you and see it.
As mentioned earlier LIFE is one for all in the family to enjoy. Visit the website if you have a particular access need.
Ticketing Information
The immersive exhibition runs from Tuesday 30 January to Saturday 3 February 2024 (timed ticket slots available every 15 minutes from 5.30 – 9.45 pm). Ticket prices are based on the time of your visit, starting at just £8 with premium slots at £12. Tickets for under 16s are just £5. Under 2s do not need a ticket.
Be sure to book tickets to avoid disappointment.
More on St Martin-In-The-Fields
The current St Martin’s building dates back to the 18th century. It was designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1726. It has been in the heart of London ever since. Named after its patron saint, St Martin, who was a former Roman soldier converted to Christianity. Today, the church is a place where people of different faiths meet to pray. Located at one corner of Trafalgar Square, the magnificent building forms part of the city’s iconic vista.
Have you ever attended an immersive sound and light experience? What was it that drew you to the event? Comment below I’d love to hear from you. And while you are here, check out my other lifestyle blogs for days out and dining out inspiration.
Visit the Luxmuralis website for upcoming light shows near you.
Feature Image Photo Credit: Luxmuralis
