the huge light sculptures you need to see this summer

Light sculptures have been popping up everywhere, from your Pinterest board to your local coffee shop – they’re making their mark in the art world.

And now we get the chance to visit some stunning large-scale installations right on our doorstep! After having his work featured at the Tate and being shortlisted for the Turner Prize, Scottish artist Nathan Coley has brought six of his works of art to gorgeous locations around Sussex as part of his new outdoor exhibition Tentative Words Change Everything.

newhaven cliffs nathan coley light sculpture

Coley’s large-scale outdoor light installations can be spotted in Brack Mount, Lewes; St Mary’s Church, Glynde (below); Rathfinny Wine Estate, Alfriston (feature image); West Beach Promenade, Newhaven (above); and Junction Road Car Park, Eastbourne.

We always enjoy seeing new art pieces around the city and we’re particularly excited to visit the new commission in Charleston, Firle, the former home of artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant.

st mary's church glynde light sculpture nathan coley

Coley has held solo exhibitions all over the world, but is excited to make his mark on our beautiful Sussex landscapes.

“I’m enthralled and moved by all of the locations and how the sculptures sit together in the Sussex landscape,” he said.

We reckon it’s the perfect excuse to hop in the car (or the train), grab a coffee and ride around Sussex to take in the views (and get those shots for Instagram, of course).

By Georgia Winstanley

Until 29th August, 2022; free; various locations across Sussex

Photo credits: Keith Hunter