Luminarium – Architects of Air

Welcome to this year’s Luminarium – the incredible Arborialis installation by Architects of Air.  Prepare to enter a wonderful world of light and colour as you wander through a dazzling maze of winding paths and soaring domes located once again in the beautiful grounds of Kirkleatham Museum.

Dedicated to the theme of ‘trees’, there are radiant canopies of leaves that stretch overhead and vibrant tree trunks rising from the ground beneath and the visual world of Arborialis is enhanced by the natural and spiritual sounds of the Song of Danu created by Irish composer Dr Michael Morris.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

10am – 7pm, 22 - 25 August 2024.

Ticket Sales Notice:

• Advance tickets are now sold out, but fear not – as walk-up tickets will be available across on-the-day for each day from 11am – 5pm from Kirkleatham Museum front-desk.
• The queue may close early each day, depending on numbers – so don’t forget to check ahead in advance of your visit!
• Remember to park at Kirkleatham Walled Garden before you head on over to the site, as the main carpark may be full!

Luminarium at Between the Tides FAQs

GENERAL

What is a Luminarium?

A Luminarium is a sculpture you enter for an encounter with light. This immersive art installation has been likened to a labyrinth. Walking through will awaken all of the senses, creating a sense of wonder and enchantment for all ages. Many people find the luminarium calming – a place for rest or meditation. Others are simply hypnotised by this amazing world of light and subtle and saturated hues.

The beautiful colours are created by natural light travelling through the material of the Luminarium walls. You will hear an ambient soundtrack. Each visitor has their own way of exploring the structure – some like to see every twist and turn, whilst others prefer to find a spot to rest and contemplate. We encourage you to explore in your own way!
Once you are ready to leave, you can do so through the one-way exit.

Who is a Luminarium for?

The Luminarium is suitable for all ages. It is a great option for a family day out, introducing younger children to artistic and cultural experiences in a public space. The structure is fully accessible for wheelchair users, who are welcome to visit at all times.

How long does it last?

A visit usually lasts around 20 minutes. If there are no queues you are welcome to stay and relax longer. At busy times, we may place a time limit of 20 minutes on your visit to allow as many people as possible to experience the Luminarium.

Who is Luminarium by?

Luminarium is brought to you by Nottingham-based company Architects of Air, led by designer Alan Parkinson. Their exhibitions have travelled to over 40 counties across 5 continents, reaching over 3 million people to date. You can find out more about Architects of Air here: architects-of-air.com

When does it take place? 

Luminarium will take place between 24^th and 27^th  August 2023 it will be open between the hours of 10am and 7pm. The piece uses natural light to create its daytime spectacle.

Where is it taking place? 

Luminarium will take place at Kirkleatham Museum Grounds, Redcar

It is a large, inflatable structure and will be hard to miss.

Do I need a ticket?

Yes. Tickets are issued online in advance. We recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long wait times. On arrival at the site, you will join one of two queues – advance tickets and on the door tickets. There is more information about ticketing below. When you are admitted into the reception area you will remove your shoes and leave them in the designated area along with any large bags. All belongings left at the reception are done so at the owner’s own risk. You will then be admitted into the Luminarium.

Advance booking

Pre-purchase tickets will be available online for admission at booked times. Advance ticket holders must arrive 10 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket. A small queue should still be expected. If advance tickets are indicated as sold out, you can still join the line onsite but must expect a longer wait time.

On the day tickets

There will be limited entry available on the day, which will be offered on a first come, first served basis. On arrival you will join a queue for entry as others exit the Luminarium. Please note that this queue may close early in the event of high attendance.

Is it suitable for children and young people?

Yes! Luminarium is suitable for all ages and a fantastic opportunity to introduce young people to cultural events. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult over 18. Prams and pushchairs cannot to be taken into the Luminarium.

Will the Luminarium come back to Redcar and Cleveland on future dates?

There are currently no plans to programme the Luminarium again but you can follow Architects of Air (architects-of-air.com) to find out about future

ACCESSIBILITY

Is the installation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Luminarium is suitable for wheelchairs.

Are guide dogs allowed inside?

The Luminarium is not an environment a dog feels comfortable in, even a guide dog. Other visitors may find it threatening if there are dogs barking. The dog would also need to wear protective shoes. So, our rule is that your guide dogs should remain outside, and we will find an alternative way for you to be accompanied through the Luminarium.

Is it suitable for those who are deaf or hard of hearing? 

Yes. The Luminarium is predominantly visual and can be enjoyed by those who are deaf or hard of hearing. There is an ambient soundscape that accompanies the installation that contains no words and is not necessary to enjoy the experience.

Is it suitable for those with a visual impairment? 

Luminarium is a highly visual installation that uses colour and light, though those with a visual impairment are welcome to explore the installation to enjoy the atmosphere and ambient soundscape. The Luminarium is not an environment that is suitable for guide dogs, so guide dogs should remain outside with a member of our team. If you have a visual impairment and would like to enter Luminarium, please make yourself known to a member of staff on arrival who can provide you with some more information and guide you.

Flashing lights, seizure warning and sensory warning 

Luminarium contains no flashing lights or artificial lighting, and the colours within are created from sunlight flooding through the material. The Luminarium may have up to 80 people at any one time, so please be mindful of this in advance of your visit.

Is there seating inside of the Luminarium? 

No, there is no seating available within Luminarium, but visitors are welcome to sit and lie down within the structure if they wish at any time.

Is there a disabled access toilet nearby? 

Yes, there is disabled access toilet on site at the museum grounds. Stewards will be happy to direct you.

I am a blue badge holder, where should I park?

Blue badge parking is available adjacent to the installation at Kirkleatham Museum. Please remember to bring your blue badge with you and to display it in your vehicle.

Do you have wheelchairs or mobility scooters on site for public use?

No, we do not, so you will need to provide your own mobility aids. The site is accessible for all wheelchairs.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

Will the installation be cancelled in adverse weather conditions?

As Luminarium is an inflatable structure, the installation may be closed during high winds. Though firmly secured, safety is our number one priority, and the structure will reopen when it is safe to do so. In high temperatures, the Luminarium may temporarily close to cool down. The structure will open as soon as it is safe. Please listen to your stewards on the day for updates.

TICKETS

Where are my tickets?

Your tickets will be emailed to you as soon as you book. Please check your spam folder is you cannot find them. Please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device or print out for scanning on the day.

Can I collect tickets from the box office?

No, there is no collect at box office for this event. You will receive your ticket via email please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device for scanning on the day.

I have not received my email confirmation, is this normal? 

No, if you haven’t received an email confirming your ticket reservation, please send us details of your booking and when you booked your tickets. Please email events@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Will my tickets be posted out to me?

No, your tickets will be an e-ticket, so please download your ticket in advance to your mobile device for scanning on the day. If you cannot find your e-ticket please email events@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

I have lost or mislaid my tickets; can I get duplicates?

Tickets will be emailed out, but if you can’t find your tickets, please contact us on events@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk with your booking reference and we will be able to update you or replace your tickets if required. You may be required to prove your identity and/or proof of purchase.

What time should we arrive?

Advance ticket holders must arrive 10 minutes before the time indicated on the ticket. A small queue should still be expected.

Can I just show my e-mail confirmation to enter the event?

All tickets will be checked at the Box Office and customers must have an e-ticket with a unique bar code. Valid tickets will be accepted in all formats, whether printed or on mobile phone.

Is there a waiting list for tickets if they sell out? 

No. We are not able to add names to a waiting list when the tickets are sold out.

TRAVEL

Where can we park?

There is parking available at Kirkelatham Museum grounds, however if this is full, a free car park is available at Kirkelatham walled garden

Add in address and postcode
SPACES: 300 spaces

 We strongly advise local people to walk or cycle to the event.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Can I bring my drone to the event?

No. Use of a drone on the site of the event is prohibited and to ensure the safety of the general public, we reserve the right to call the police to intervene.

OTHER

Can I bring a pushchair?

Pushchairs are not permitted within the structure.

Are there toilets available?

Yes, Kirkleatham Museum grounds will be open for the use of the toilet facilities.

Will there be food available?

Kirkleatham Café will be open for food and refreshments. Also there is plenty of space for you to enjoy a picnic before or after your visit to the Luminarium.

Is alcohol permitted?

No alcohol is permitted within the Luminarium.

Who are the organisers of Luminarium? 

Luminarium is created and delivered by Architects of Air and brought to Redcar and Cleveland by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

How can I get in touch to provide feedback? 

Advance ticket holders will be sent a survey after the event to gather feedback. You can also contact us by sending an email to events@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk with your thoughts or comments. 

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