Hope Street sparkles with new light installations for Christmas

Hope Street has welcomed a new, specially commissioned artwork for Christmas.

In response to the ongoing pandemic and to bring some sparkle, unity and Christmas cheer to Hope Street, local artist Helen Davies has created light installations in the windows of various venues and businesses along the famous street.

The unique installations, named Hope for Christmas, feature beautiful snowflakes set in never-ending rings of unity, providing a trail of Christmas lights. Students from LIPA helped Helen bring the installations to life, along with DesignLaserPlay which provided the laser cutting.

In addition, as part of Christmas in the city, for the first time ever, new lighting features have been installed along Hope Street between the two cathedrals which includes a fitting display of angels playing trumpets, in the direction of the cathedrals and the Philharmonic Hall.

Both projects have been delivered by Visit Hope St CIC and Liverpool City Council as part of the Liverpool Without Walls initiative.

Hope for Christmas has been installed at:

• Blackburne House
• Hope St Hotel (former Pizza Express)
• Unity Theatre
• Philharmonic Hall
• Art School Restaurant
• 92 Degrees
• Buyers Club
• Free State Kitchen
• The Pen Factory
• Everyman Theatre

Michael Eakin, Chief Executive at Liverpool Philharmonic and Chair of the CIC commented:

“In normal years Hope Street is a hub of activity around Christmastime with more than 240 events, welcoming over 150,000 people. Although 2020 is different, there is still plenty to enjoy including concerts at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. The Hope St for Christmas light installations make the street feel incredibly festive and it is fantastic that we are able to welcome visitors back safely this December.”

Liverpool’s Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for culture, tourism and events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said:

“It’s fantastic that for the first time Liverpool’s Christmas lighting programme will see Hope Street illuminated – connecting our two majestic cathedrals and bringing some much-needed brightness and hope to the city.

“Helen’s creative commission is a welcome addition and will provide some festive cheer for people spending some time in the city centre.”

Helen Davies said: ‘It has been a magical opportunity to work with so many people and hopefully bring a bit of joy back to Christmas in Liverpool.  I am particularly grateful to Pen Factory who hosted me while the installation was being created.’

Hope For Christmas has been made possible with thanks to Liverpool City Council and Arts Council England.