Canary Wharf Winter Lights 2027: 11th Edition Open Call – RE(IMAGINE)

Canary Wharf Winter Lights is one of London's most celebrated light art festivals, and for its 11th edition in January 2027, the organisers are inviting artists from around the world to respond to the theme RE(IMAGINE).

This open call welcomes mesmerising and innovative light installations that can reimagine the urban landscape — challenging perceptions of light, space, and the city. Proposals might take the form of kinetic sculptures, architectural projections, immersive digital works, or intimate responsive pieces. The Canary Wharf estate offers a diverse range of settings including parks, plazas, and waterfronts, and artists are encouraged to consider how their work will interact with these varied urban contexts and a wide public audience.

Who can apply?

The call is open to artists of all backgrounds, nationalities, and career stages — including those working across fine art, architecture, digital practice, and engineering-led disciplines. There are no age restrictions. Technical feasibility is a key selection criterion, and works must be designed to withstand outdoor conditions in a high-traffic environment.

What's on offer?

• Exhibition at one of London's highest-profile and most-visited light festivals (hundreds of thousands of visitors annually)
• Extensive media exposure and inclusion in a major city-wide marketing campaign
• Collaborative production support from the Canary Wharf Arts & Events team
• Professional networking alongside leading global names in light and digital art

How to apply:

Before submitting, you must email Arts+Events@canarywharf.com to request the official proposal pack. Your submission will then need to include a portfolio and CV, a project description outlining concept and audience experience, and technical documentation including sketches, cost estimates, and structural engineering outlines.

There is no application or entry fee.

The festival runs 19–30 January 2027.