Two Central Coast artists have seen their creative visions come to life in the Sydney skyline after their work was selected for Vivid Sydney, Australia’s largest festival of light, music and ideas.
Lorraine, 78, and Louis, 79, both residents of Peninsula Villages aged-care community, had their paintings projected onto the historic ASN Clock Tower at The Rocks on Wednesday, 28 May. Dutch design studio Mr Beam, renowned for transforming landmarks with large-scale projections, chose their entries from submissions around the globe. The artworks appeared in an 11 minute rotating loop, bathing the tower in bright colours and bold textures as thousands of festival-goers watched.
“I adore life at Peninsula Villages and the opportunities it brings,” said Lorraine. “Seeing my piece glowing over Sydney was a very special moment.”
To celebrate the occasion, Peninsula Villages arranged an evening excursion so fellow residents could witness the display first-hand. A coach trip into the city allowed the group to soak up Vivid’s buzzing atmosphere while cheering on their friends.
Greg Patterson, Lifestyle Manager at Peninsula Villages, said the night out created lasting memories.
“For many residents it had been years since they’d visited the city after dark,” he explained. “Watching their faces light up, not only in front of the Clock Tower but along the whole harbour foreshore, was unforgettable.”
Both Lorraine and Louis embraced vivid hues and layered techniques to bring their ideas to life. Lorraine described the creative process as “a few days of letting my imagination run free”, adding that the project proves artistic expression is possible at any age.
Their inclusion in Vivid is no small feat. The festival attracts over 3.8 million visitors annually and features some of the world’s leading digital artists. Having two residents feature on such a prominent canvas is a milestone that will be cherished across the Peninsula Villages community.
This was the second consecutive year Peninsula Villages had organised a dedicated trip to Vivid, furthering its commitment to keeping residents engaged with cultural events beyond the Village gates. The outing offered a rare chance to reconnect with the heart of Sydney, experience cutting-edge art and technology, and enjoy the camaraderie of a shared adventure.
“As soon as the bus doors opened, there was a sense of wonder and excitement,” Greg Patterson said. “Fireworks over the harbour were the perfect finale to a magical evening.”
Peninsula Villages’ lifestyle programme focuses on experiences that broaden horizons, nurture creativity and reinforce community bonds. Whether arranging gallery visits, live music performances, or city excursions, the team aims to ensure that residents continue to enjoy meaningful and uplifting moments at every stage of life.
