James Newton

The Illuminated River

Illuminated River is a long-term art installation on an unprecedented scale: a scheme to light up 14 bridges of central London and transform nocturnal views of the city. An orchestrated series of light works that evolve at the stately pace of the river itself, Illuminated River draws inspiration from the spirit and history of the River Thames and celebrates the diverse communities that live along its banks.

Designed and programmed by New York-based artist Leo Villareal, working with project architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands, the work brings to life aspects of the city otherwise hidden after dark. Phase 1 was launched in 2019 and it included Cannon Street, London, Southwark and Millennium Bridges.

Illuminated River is a long-term art installation on an unprecedented scale: a scheme to light up 14 bridges of central London and transform nocturnal views of the city. An orchestrated series of light works that evolve at the stately pace of the river itself, Illuminated River draws inspiration from the spirit and history of the River Thames and celebrates the diverse communities that live along its banks.

Designed and programmed by New York-based artist Leo Villareal, working with project architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands, the work brings to life aspects of the city otherwise hidden after dark. Phase 1 was launched in 2019 and it included Cannon Street, London, Southwark and Millennium Bridges.