Gravesend Light Festival - Light & Life

Gravesham Light Festival 2026 – Artist Commission opportunity

2026 is the 5^th annual Light Festival in Gravesham and we are keen to work with artists to create a number of site-specific installations for this exciting festival.

The theme this year is Light & Life and artists are encouraged to release their imaginations around this. We are keen to see fun interactive installations that explore how light can transform spaces, influence perceptions and create impactful experiences. All we ask is that you respond to the theme with an illuminated artwork or installation. The important thing to remember is that this festival is designed to demonstrate the creativity and vibrancy of our borough and to give residents and visitors alike a wonderful experience in the dark and wintery days of January. The Light Festival takes place on January 30^th & 31^st between 5.30pm – 8.30pm and artists are expected to be on site for the duration of the festival.

All costs for the piece including materials, install and de-install must be included in the budget along with security considerations. Submissions are encouraged from artists and creatives who live or regularly work within the borough, professional or amateur, who have experience of working with the community and can deliver high quality and accessible projects that are durable and sustainable.

The total fee is up to £3000

Installation locations:

St Georges Gardens

St Andrew’s Quayside

Old Town Hall under croft

St Andrew’s Arts Centre (inside)

The project proposal must achieve the following objectives

·       Create an eye-catching and dynamic new work for Gravesham

·       To develop creative engagement opportunities for Gravesham communities

·       Be resilient to change environmental factors

How to apply: Submit proposals to artsandculture@gravesham.gov.uk

Selection: A selection panel will review submissions and may invite a shortlist to take part in an on-line interview to answer any questions that may arise from the panel.

What to expect if you are selected: Successful submissions will be informed in writing and required to sign and return a Condition of Funding Agreement before any funds are processed. 90% of agreed funds will be issued and the final payment of 10% will be made once a Funding Evaluation Form has been returned to us. In accepting this grant offer, you will be agreeing to publicly acknowledge our support by using the council logo on all publicity which in turn must be approved by the council prior to release. Additional conditions of funding may apply.

Copyright: The Copyright for all work created for this commission remains with the artists. However, as part of the agreement the work will be available for additional; exhibition by the council for a period of 3 years after the agreement date. Any exhibition outside of council activity must include the logo within the 3year period.

Submission deadline: 28 November 2025

Please submit proposals including a budget breakdown and indicate your preferred location to: artsandculture@gravesham.gov.uk