Art to light up Anzac stories

The stories behind Australia and Albany’s involvement in World War I will be brought to life through an artistic large-scale projection of historic images and footage as part of two feature events for the Anzac centenary commemorations.

Illumination and artistic moving image specialist Illuminart has been appointed to create Projections and Storytelling and Princess Royal Harbour Lights, and began planning this week.

Project manager Ian Lilburne, lighting designer Damien Hanson and artistic director Cindi Drennan made their first visit to Albany yesterday to begin planning and selecting appropriate sites.

Ms Drennan said her team of specialists from WA and South Australia was looking forward to delivering the emotive events in October.

She said community forums were planned as part of the creative process.

“Working with Ian and our team, we will unfold the stories of Australians becoming involved in the international conflict of the First World War, featuring local Albany stories,” she said.

“We’ll be making connections with local people who will be involved in contributing stories, knowledge, artwork or participating in the production.

“With both Projections and Storytelling and Princess Royal Harbour Lights, our aim is to use technological art to offer not just an exciting and moving spectacle, but also a legacy of stories, creative opportunities and increased appreciation of local heritage.”

Projections and Storytelling will be held at various locations from October 30 to November 2 and will be free to attend.

Princess Royal Harbour Lights will be an interpretive sound, lighting and pyrotechnic display on the harbour when the sun sets on October 31 — the eve of the centenary of the departure of the convoys.

Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington said he was confident the two events would be high-quality and poignant tributes to the Anzacs.