Arts & Culture
Published: September 5, 2024 | Updated: 5th September 2024
An innovative light festival will show Southampton in a new light next February – and Southampton Forward, the city’s culture trust, is calling for nominations from local people to be featured.
Organisers say City Reflections will celebrate local people and highlight the diverse stories, culture and heritage of Southampton’s communities.
They’ll feature in hundreds of images and video clips projected onto walls and buildings to shine a light on the difference – big or small – made by Sotonians to their city.
Westquay shopping centre is lead sponsor for the event, which is also supported by funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and Arts Council England.
Andy Jackson, destination director at Westquay, said: “Collaborating with local artists and creatives is just one of the ways we’re evolving Westquay from a place where people come only to shop, to a destination which connects the community through an exciting mix of uses including culture.
“City Reflections is a celebration of the unsung heroes who have shaped Southampton, and we’re proud to sponsor this exciting event which will pay them homage.”
The trail will showcase some the city’s ‘community legends’ – those often-hidden people who make a material difference to the life of the city – with an accompanying online map.
Cllr Christie Lambert, cabinet member for communities at Southampton City Council, said: “This event is a unique opportunity for Southampton’s vibrant communities to showcase their rich cultural heritage and celebrate the individuals who make our city truly special.
“Working cross-sector with multiple partners including the universities, schools, community groups, charities, and businesses, City Reflections will undoubtedly create a truly memorable event that reflects the vast diversity and vibrant spirit of Southampton.”
Starting on 15 February 2025, the event will span nine days, including both weekends of the February half term to make it accessible to families and visitors.
Jasmine Taylor, community engagement manager at Southampton Forward, added: “We’re so looking forward to launching this fantastic event.
“We’re now asking people to come forward and nominate their community legends – those people who brighten the lives of those around them.
“Whether they’re a local hero who gives up their free time to volunteer in community projects, a friendly neighbour always there to help, or a quiet force for good, we want City Reflections to show how much people make Southampton.
“Think about the people who make city life brighter – either through small acts of kindness or because they run a business that gives back to its employees and customers – or a not-for-profit organisation that you think their hard work is worth celebrating.”
The deadline for nominations is 30 September. All that’s needed is a name, email address and a reason for nominating.
