Ontario Place, a cherished cultural hub nestled along the Toronto waterfront, has long been a beacon of entertainment and innovation. In its latest endeavor, Ontario Place unveiled Lumière: The Art of Light, an extraordinary exhibit that transcends traditional art forms to explore the mesmerizing world of light.

Lumière, which translates to “light” in French, is a celebration of illumination and its profound impact on our perceptions and emotions. The exhibit showcases a diverse array of installations crafted by local and international artists, each offering a unique perspective on the interplay between light, space and human experience. Among the must-sees are “Tree Love” by ZEM and “Drawn to the Flame” by John Notten, two extraordinary pieces that epitomize the magic of Lumière.

“Tree Love” stands as a testament to the harmonious relationship between nature and technology. This interactive installation combines organic elements with cutting-edge light projections to create a mesmerizing spectacle. As visitors come in contact with the piece, they are greeted by a majestic tree illuminated with an ever-changing display of colours and patterns, each synchronized with the gentle rustle of leaves and the ambient sounds of the forest. Through its innovative use of light and sound, “Tree Love” offers a poignant reminder of our interconnectedness with the natural world, inspiring a sense of reverence and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. Here is a tip – hug the tree and see what happens next!

Meanwhile, “Drawn to the Flame” entices audiences with its hypnotic allure and symbolic resonance through canoes that are ablaze. Through a captivating interplay of light and darkness, “Drawn to the Flame” invites viewers to contemplate the fleeting nature of desire and the eternal quest for enlightenment, leaving a lasting impression long after they have departed. The combination of watching the canoes ablaze together with the smell of the crackling bonfire nearby makes this installation come to life with the interplay of multiple senses.

In addition to these installations, Lumière offers a wealth of other captivating experiences for visitors to enjoy, such as the sunset bonfire. From dynamic light sculptures to interactive multimedia displays, each artwork invites participants to engage with light in new and unexpected ways, fostering a sense of curiosity and exploration. 

As Lumière continues to illuminate Ontario Place with its brilliance until April 20th, it provides a centre of creativity and inspiration for the community. Whether marveling at the beauty of “Tree Love,” contemplating the symbolism of “Drawn to the Flame,” or simply immersing oneself in the enchanting atmosphere of the exhibition, visitors are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of light in art and in life.

Photos provided courtesy of Argyle Public Relations.