The Winter Lights in Canary Wharf

Seeing my old work area become one big giant open-air art gallery was great fun. I’ve always associated Canary Wharf with a severe money hood. Still, the image is more mellow because the Estate is putting on more shows to attract non-financiers into the area. Plus, it’s good for the local economy. I heard that 500,000 people visited last year.

I decided to see the Winter Lights a couple of days ago. It was still hectic. I went early, around 5.30 pm, and I’m glad I did because I had enough time to see the exhibits without shuffling along. 

Heaving Elizabeth Line

Travelling down to Canary Wharf was hellish, as so many people were trying to see the lights as the festival finished this evening. I know it was rush hour, but TFL has to do something about the frequency of trains, mainly when events occur. 

Waiting 10 minutes for a train to Canary Wharf isn’t much fun, especially when a 10 people deep line is behind you. Even though it’s only two stops from Liverpool Street and five minutes, it felt like the journey took longer.

I am not used to travelling during rush hour, so this journey felt like hard work. I breathed a sigh of relief as the doors opened, and we all spilt into the station.

Beginning of The Trail

For its ninth year, the Winter Lights showcased 12 installations by the Globe’s innovative Light artists.

I was expecting lots of razzmatazz. However, the first exhibit near the Elizabeth Line introduced us to three lit-up figures with bent backs called Artificial Humans by Atelier Haute Cuisine.

It might have been understated, but it highlighted something big happening in society now. Most people are getting hunched because of the time they spend on their phones. 

We then walked past the Adams Plaza Bridge, Jubilee Gardens, and Water Street to the next exhibit. I saw The Mirage in Montgomery Square and then Bird Passing By on Water Street. I found the Portal a bit bizarre. It was a lit-up arch. 

Then we went to Jubilee Gardens to see Light Benches - the benches were lit up. I liked the Illusion Hole near Bank Street. Going up the ramp to view with everyone else didn’t appeal, so I went around to see The Clew by Ototto. We then headed to Cabot Square to see the Evanescent Droplets. 

The Trail Continued

We then walked along the Riverside. By this stage, I was done. However, there were still more exhibits to see, including Error. I decided to skip Westferry and then headed back to the station. 

Canary Wharf

It’s a good place to hold the festival because there’s so much space to enjoy each one even with the crowds. Even though it was busy, I didn’t feel like we were shuffling along.

It was busier than usual because many workers went home or to the neighbouring bars and restaurants. They seemed bemused by the crowds' fascination.

Parting Comments 

I was expecting something grander, but it was understated. However, some of the exhibitions were thought-provoking, which is the intention behind the festival. It was transformative, with otherworldly qualities of art and light, featuring portals, black holes, and mirages.

I’m glad I saw it before the festival finished on February 1, 2025. I’m also glad I went during the week because the weekends are always busy. The event was free, and seeing my old working neighbourhood again after dark was lovely. 

If you decide to go next year, go with an open mind and take your time with each installation.

Thank you for your attention.

Best wishes

Tabby