Lighting of the Sails: Echo FULL VIDEO

"Lighting of the Sails: Echo," created by Julia Gutman for Vivid Sydney 2024, is a mesmerizing display that transforms the iconic Sydney Opera House sails into a canvas of animated storytelling. Gutman, an Archibald Prize-winning artist, collaborated with animation technologists Pleasant Company and sound designer Angus Mills to create this compelling installation.
The artwork reinterprets the myth of Narcissus from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, exploring themes of self-reflection and inner discovery. Utilizing centuries-old textile techniques, Gutman animates donated fabrics, creating a narrative that follows a young protagonist as she navigates through fantastical landscapes made of satin, denim, and hessian. The visual journey is accentuated by dance, music, and puppetry, weaving together elements of vulnerability, strength, and imagination.
This piece not only celebrates the tactile and visual beauty of fabric but also delves into deeper psychological and emotional themes, inviting viewers to reflect on their own identities and connections to the world around them. Commissioned by the Sydney Opera House and Destination NSW, "Echo" is a highlight of Vivid LIVE 2024, captivating audiences with its innovative blend of art and technology​.