Albany's 'Lighting the Sound' Dazzles South Coast

A large-scale light installation in Albany, Western Australia, has attracted thousands of visitors to the region's south coast. Over 750 LED lights along a 12-kilometer stretch of King George Sound illuminated the night sky.

Finnish Artist's Australian Debut

The installation, named "Lighting the Sound," was designed by Finnish light artist Kari Kola and was commissioned as part of the City of Albany's bicentennial. This project marks Kola's first in Australia, following similar installations globally, including in Ireland's Connemara Mountains and at Stonehenge in England.

Largest Global Installation with Indigenous Roots

Kola stated that the initial plan for the display was smaller, but it expanded. The light show is noted as the largest ever constructed globally.

The inspiration for the display was drawn from the culture of the region's traditional owners, specifically the Menang people and the bloodroot plant, with colors derived from the plant itself.

Cultural Connection and Bicentennial Bridge

The multi-million dollar installation was one of several commissioned for the bicentennial and involved collaboration with Menang elders and local community members. Menang and Nadju woman Carol Pettersen, a consultant on the project, highlighted the show's cultural connection.

Pettersen emphasized that "Lighting the Sound" serves as a bridge between the region's Indigenous and non-Indigenous history, ensuring the Menang story is included in the bicentenary commemoration.

Economic Boost and Visitor Projections

"Lighting the Sound" is scheduled to run for nine nights over three weekends. Mayor Greg Stocks anticipates the installation will attract approximately 15,000 visitors each weekend. He projects an economic boost of $30 to $40 million for the local economy.

Global Recognition and Unique Scale

This light show follows recent drone performances in King George Sound, though Kola's installation is of a larger scale. Finland's Ambassador to Australia, Arto Happea, noted connections between the two countries regarding natural light phenomena. He praised the technical demands and unique scale of Kola's work.