Santa Barbara-based Unite to Light is determined to extend the power of light to the darkest corners of the globe, where electricity remains a distant dream.
Recognizing light’s pivotal role in enhancing health, education and prosperity, the organization champions the cause of providing accessible and affordable solar light and energy.
To achieve its goal, the nonprofit will host Unite to Light the Night Art Exhibition and Fundraiser, Oct. 20-21 at the Community Arts Workshop in Santa Barbara.
Some 30 artistic installations paying homage to the power of light will be brought to life through such mediums as projection mapping, video, sculpture, photography and performance.
Attendees will step into a visual realm of wonder, explore immersive works, and witness thought-provoking live performances.
“This exhibition invites guests to ponder our symbiotic relationship with light and energy,” said Megan Birney Rudert, president/CEO of Unite to Light. “Unite to Light the Night serves as a poignant reminder that light is not only a necessity but a creative force that bridges cultures and communities.”
Creators include media artist Timothy Wood, whose mesmerizing piece “Fabric” is featured in UCSB’s research facility AlloSphere. Other artists contributing visionary works are Marco Pinter, Amun Levy, Rebecca Zendejas, and Kellen Mayer.
Adding a futuristic touch to the event, UCSB Media and Arts Department graduate students Nefeli Manoudaki and Iason Paterakis, under the guidance of Professor Marcos Novak, will showcase cutting-edge projection mapping that transcends the boundaries of art and technology.
“Unite to Light the Night is not just a fundraiser, it’s a transformational experience that seamlessly merges artistry, community spirit, and tangible social change,” said Kate Kubiak, CEO of Vesper Post, the event production agency tasked with producing this event for the second consecutive year.
Early bird ticket pricing available until Oct. 2.
Learn more about all the featured artists at unitetolight.org/utlt2023artists. For more Unite to Light, visit UnitetoLight.org.
The two-day event includes the Glow Gala on Friday in which attendees embark on an art journey that guides them through the exhibit and introduces them to artists along the way.
The Bright Bash starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, with free admission for the community until 7:30 p.m. Visitors can explore the show and experience and a hands-on art project. There will be an artist talk at 6:30 p.m. moderated by Nathan Vonk.
As the sun sets, the evening will transition into a multi-sensory dance party lasting until midnight.
For tickets, visit UniteToLight.org/LightTheNight.