Long time proponents of participatory arts practice, Kent-based Strange Cargo return to Gravesham Light Festival 2023.

Having curated the pilot Gravesend Light Festival in 2022, Strange Cargo filled the Heritage Quarter
with specially commissioned artworks. This year, they have created an installation for St George’s Park, called Rolling Down the River.

This serves as “a joyful reminder of Gravesend’s connection to the River Thames as a working river and as part of everyday life of the town”.

Featuring river sounds, sea shanty music, the piece includes lit sails that celebrate the iconic Thames barge, as well as a flock of lantern swans, and a large lantern sculpture of Old Father Thames, which will greet visitors to the Light Festival.

Strange Cargo has developed the piece specifically for this event, drawing upon relevant references including the River Thames, it’s wildlife, working life, history, and myths, all brought together through light based artworks.

You can read more about what Strange Cargo do here