Light Up the North (LUTN) is the first network of its kind in the UK, bringing together key light festivals across the North to work together on a range of strategic initiatives
Launched in 2014, the vision is for the network is to be recognised nationally and internationally as an exemplar of partnership working, and as a centre of excellence and best practice for creativity in light art. In 2022, the network included Durham Lumiere, Light Up Lancaster, Light Night Leeds, Lightpool, Blackpool Illuminations and Grundy Art Gallery, and Quays Culture’s Lightwaves.
Maria worked as the Strategic Lead in support of the network 2022/2023. During this time, LUTN launched a new membership model, growing significantly with festivals joining from Barnsley, Bradford, Crewe, Middlesborough, Newcastle, Oldham, Wigan, Wakefield and Worcester. Two-year funding was secured from Arts Council England in 2023 to develop LUTN around the members’ priorities: large-scale co-commissioning, talent development, co-touring, conferences and a new online light artist directory.
