Globetrotting light artist brings Spaces Up-Above exhibition to Manchester

This April, Manchester leisure destination Printworks will unveil the highly anticipated Spaces Up-Above exhibition in partnership with Pixel Artworks and renowned light artist, Rupert Newman.

Launching on April 1, the Pixel Artworks ‘Originals’ experience Spaces Up-Above marks the latest addition to Printworks’ dynamic art programme following its £27m refurbishment in March 2024. This will be the first time Newman’s artwork has been displayed in an exhibition in Manchester, having previously created light art globally in the likes of Hong Kong, Venice and Abu Dhabi.

The one-of-a-kind exhibition will feature Newman’s visually captivating artwork brought to life across Europe’s largest digital ceiling using cutting-edge technology.

Newman, known for transforming architecture into mesmerising visual experiences, will immerse audiences in a dreamlike, celestial world using a bright and dynamic colour palette inspired by the energy, optimism, and warmth of summer.

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Visitors can experience a fascinating five-minute journey, where ever-changing visuals and a dynamic array of vibrant colours create an unforgettable sensory odyssey.

The large-scale digital art will infuse vivid, uplifting hues of light with tropical fish and coral-inspired patterns to create a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors across the 1,000m2 ceiling. The work will explore the manipulation of scale and speed, incorporating bold colours and accelerated effects to create a visually compelling experience and endless moments of wonder.

Daniel Davis, centre manager at Printworks, said: “Immersive art is one of the most exciting cultural movements right now and Rupert’s creation is truly spectacular. Partnering with Pixel Artworks and Rupert to bring this experience to life was a natural decision. With the power of Europe’s largest digital ceiling, we’re excited to offer visitors an unforgettable journey through light and creativity. Best of all, it’s completely free and open to visitors of all ages.”

The month-long exhibition, running throughout the Easter holidays, offers a unique opportunity for cultural and social engagement, providing a spectacular, shareable experience for visitors. It will highlight Printworks’ industrial heritage while offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre, perfectly complementing the venue’s vibrant atmosphere.

Newman added: “Spaces Up-Above at Printworks is the perfect blend of innovative technology and my creative vision, and I couldn’t be more excited for this collaboration. The venue’s rich history and energy provides a dynamic backdrop for this experience, which celebrates light, colour, and joy – capturing the essence of summer and creating a sense of wonder.”

Spaces Up-Above is an experience that goes beyond visual art; it’s a celebration of light and movement that invites visitors to immerse themselves in a surreal journey, where every glance reveals something new.