Every year from November to January, Turin transforms into one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations, thanks to Luci d’Artista, a cultural event that turns the city into an open-air museum. This unique exhibition, first launched in November 1997, was the brainchild of Fiorenzo Alfieri, then the city’s tourism commissioner. Born from the idea that art should inhabit the streets, squares, and buildings of the city, Luci d’Artista can be considered the first Italian event to bring large-scale light installations into public urban spaces.
Originally conceived to replace traditional Christmas lights with unique works of art, the event features installations created by contemporary artists active in Turin. Over the years, Luci d’Artista has expanded its scope, becoming an internationally renowned event that goes beyond the holiday season to offer a true outdoor art exhibition. This initiative highlights Turin’s deep connection to contemporary art, as the city, once known as a center of Baroque elegance and Art Nouveau experimentation, and later a hub for industrial design, continues to be a privileged platform for artists of all backgrounds and levels.
Art Meets Light in the Streets of Turin
Thanks to Luci d’Artista, the streets, squares, and monuments of Turin are illuminated with extraordinary light-based artworks by internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. These installations use light as a medium to create an enchanting, poetic atmosphere, transforming the city’s urban landscape into a creative laboratory. Every year, the event evolves, introducing new works and reinterpreting iconic installations that have become synonymous with Luci d’Artista. This ensures a fresh and unique experience each year, offering new perspectives and surprises for visitors.
Some installations have even become permanent fixtures in the city, such as Mario Merz’s Fibonacci Sequence, which adorns the dome of the Mole Antonelliana, Turin’s most iconic monument. These works are not only beautiful but also invite deep reflection on themes such as nature, time, space, urban life, and technology.
An Immersive and Sustainable Experience
What makes Luci d’Artista truly special is its ability to bring art closer to the people, turning the streets of Turin into a dynamic, creative playground. The contrast between the glowing lights and the city’s historic architecture creates a unique visual spectacle, where each artwork becomes a window into an imaginary world. The boundary between reality and fantasy blurs, offering visitors an immersive experience that sparks the imagination.
In addition to celebrating art, the event is also committed to sustainability, utilizing energy-efficient lighting technologies to minimize environmental impact. This focus on sustainability makes the event not only a cultural highlight but also a forward-thinking initiative that aligns with contemporary concerns about the environment.
Discover Turin in a New Light
If you’re seeking an experience that blends contemporary art, the beauty of the city, and the magic of light, Luci d’Artista in Turin is an unmissable event. City Sightseeing Turin offers visitors a new and captivating perspective on the city, immersing them in a sensory journey through light and shadow. Whether you’re a lover of art or simply looking for a magical experience, Luci d’Artista will leave you enchanted, as you explore Turin in all its illuminated splendor.
