Richmond welcomes variety of artists

InLight Richmond, a light-based art show, took place in historic Tredegar on Fri., Oct. 21. The exhibition spanned from Dominion Resources to the American Civil War Center. This site was especially significant because it marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War.

InLight featured 18 art installations and performances and ran from 7 p.m. to midnight. The show featured a wide array of art based on expression or thought provocation.

Hundreds of guests attended to view artwork boosted by artificial light or accompanied by interpretive dancing. The 18 pieces were juried and catered to the crowd by having items of interest for all ages.

Students from Elko Middle School in Henrico County created lanterns displaying artificial candles that dangled on sticks throughout the evening and during part of the Community Lantern Parade.

"Diva," designed by Stefani Byrd and Wes Eastin, grabbed the attention of many guests because of its uniqueness and sound. A female opera singer was broadcast on a large, oval screen as she sang Italian arias.

The screen would get fuzzy with each legato note. The purpose of this piece was to show the importance of music as a universal form of communication.

Dahae Noh designed "Chocolate Disco" to illustrate her experience as an immigrant to the U.S. from Korea six years ago. "Chocolate Disco" fused colorful images of Ring Pops, hearts and "Hello-Kitty-esque" figures on the side of a building while blasting Asian-inspired disco tunes. According to Noh's information display, her experience in the U.S. has been colorful and fast-paced, which is evident in her piece.

InLight provided an interactive piece for the guests. "Reclamation" by James Robertson asked guests to acknowledge the dominance nature has over architecture by tying branches to a small, illuminated house.

Many other pieces tied in historical moments sparked by the Civil War era.

Local vendors provided refreshments at the art show. Boka Tako Truck prepared tacos with Mexican, Asian or American flair. RVA Vegan provided vegan hotdogs and Street Deli provided hot paninis.

The InLight art show combined the very best of art installations as well as performances and food, which made for an eventful show.

Contact reporter Laila Hart at laila.hart@richmond.edu.