Window Wanderland: connecting communities and bringing light to the streets

For former set designer Lucy Reeves Khan, taking short recuperative walks around her home town of Bristol gave rise to an idea that would bring comfort to communities across the world throughout last year’s dark nights of lockdown. 

It is a simple yet effective concept. Householders and businesses can create artwork displays in their windows which are then lit from behind.

As a result, neighbourhoods are transformed, with at-home illumination displays lighting up the streets.

Lucy told NewStart: ‘The idea for Window Wanderland came about due to my own experience of isolation during rehabilitation from an accident.

‘I often went out after dark as I was embarrassed about how I walked and when I saw curtains open, I thought how nice it would be if people created artworks in their windows to make me smile.’

Inspired by her experience, she decided to share the positivity by holding her own evening illuminations.

The idea quickly spread and since her first display six years ago, hundreds of events have taken place across the country as well as in France, Germany and even in the US and Canada.

Open to all, no special artistic talent is necessary. Organisers are on hand to offer tips, materials and assistance and are keen to stress that taking part is the most important aspect of all.

Lucy added: ‘People often start worrying that they’re not artistic enough but, given the right opportunity, I think everyone is capable of remarkable things. I love how Window Wanderland brings out the creativity in people.’

Displays have ranged from single house windows to tower block staircases, from simple to spectacular in execution.

Throughout 2020, with so many people suffering with their mental health due to isolation and lockdown, Window Wanderland took on a renewed significance.

Communities came together to create trails for sightseers to follow as part of their daily exercise routine. In the gloom of last winter’s lonely nights, the displays were a beacon of hope, a welcome reassurance that there were still people there, that others were sharing the burden.

Claire Harris ran an event in Plymouth’s Stonehouse district during the second lockdown. She said: ‘Through the loss there has been a great sense of our own vulnerability and a need to connect.’

A formerly disparate community has been brought together and the night-time streets reclaimed.

In the village of Romiley, Greater Manchester, Ami and Melanie of the art group Twisted Trees Productions have organised two events so far and are already planning the next one.

They told NewStart: ‘The theme, Spring: Growth and Hope inspired residents to spread a supportive and reassuring message, and those who didn’t take part were uplifted by the gift of art from their neighbours.’

Popular wherever they are held, demand is growing. Many organisers are already planning bigger and better repeat performances. Lucy Reeves Khan has been delighted by the popularity of her own idea.

In her own words: ‘It’s great to see so many more Window Wanderlands starting up around the country, particularly in these difficult times. People have seen just how perfect a Window Wanderland is for lifting community spirits and bringing people together safely.

‘Councils, schools, care homes, shops, arts organisations, community groups and more have been giving everyone a real treat, enjoying the process of making window displays and seeing their streets light up with imagination.’

Photo Credit – Village Voice Romiley