Garden of Lights Exhibition unveils a fusion of storytelling, technology, and creativity in Bucharest’s Botanical Garden

The multimedia exhibition “Garden of Lights” with the theme “Alice in Wonderland,” hosted by the “Dimitrie Brandza” Botanical Garden of the University of Bucharest, opened its doors at the beginning of November, offering visitors a captivating journey into a fairy-tale world and an amazing encounter between story, technology, and creativity. For this occasion, Business Review talked with Adrianna Jasik, creative manager of Wonderful Lighting, the company behind the “Garden of Lights” brand.

The exhibition captured the attention of the public from the opening day, being visited by over 10,000 people in the first days of operation. For the first time in Romania, the exhibition brings the longest illuminated tunnel in Europe, offering an unforgettable experience to the thousands of visitors who stepped into the magical realm of the Botanical Garden these days. The 200-meter-long tunnel is illuminated by 320,000 LEDs and is part of a unique route with dozens of attractions: thematic scenes, artistic installations, photo points, illuminated trees, as well as unique light and multimedia shows. Visitors could admire and interact with various forms of light art and meet elements and characters from the magical world of “Wonderland,” such as Alice, the rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the caterpillar, the Mad Hatter’s tea party, and, of course, the Queen of Hearts’ castle.

How did the partnership between Wonderful Lighting and the Botanical Garden “Dimitrie Brandza” materialize for the “Garden of Lights” initiative?

Our journey for the “Garden of Lights” began with winning the tender. This was an extraordinary venture for us, as we had long dreamed of creating something magical in a unique place like the Botanical Garden.

What criteria were considered in choosing the Botanical Garden as the venue for the exhibition?

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In selecting the Botanical Garden as the site for our exhibition, we focused on its size, terrain, attractiveness, and accessibility. This Garden, with its rich vegetation and unique landscape, provided the perfect backdrop for our light exhibition.

Can you elaborate on the decision-making process in selecting the specific location within the Botanical Garden for the various installations and attractions?

Our team conducted thorough terrain studies, taking measurements and performing a plant inventory. This allowed us to adapt our installations to the natural landscape of the Garden, creating a harmonious relationship between art and nature.

Were there any challenges faced during the planning and execution of the exhibition in a botanical setting, and how were they overcome?

Staging such an exhibition in a botanical space came with logistical and technical challenges. However, our creative team found solutions to every difficulty encountered while respecting the delicate ecosystem of the Garden.

Garden of Lights Bucharest

Garden of Lights Bucharest

What considerations were considered to ensure the exhibition respects and enhances the natural environment of the Botanical Garden?

In planning our exhibition, we had to ensure our activities aligned with protecting and promoting the Botanical Garden’s natural beauty. Through close cooperation with its management, we were able to install our installations in a non-invasive manner. We used energy-efficient, effective, and environmentally friendly LED technologies.

What attractions and light and multimedia shows are included in this exhibition?

Dozens of unique attractions await visitors: themed scenes, art installations and photo spots, illuminated trees, as well as unique light and multimedia shows. Visitors are able to admire and interact with different forms of light art and meet elements and characters from the magical world of ‘Wonderland” such as Alice, the Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Caterpillar, the Hatter’s Tea Party and, of course, the castle of the Queen of Cups. We have over 30 light installations, including 6 large multimedia installations unique in Europe (fountains, vines, pixel pine, field of lights, blossoms, multimedia tunnel). Besides, especially for the youngest visitors (and not only), we designed a light playground that is hugely popular. The total number of LED light points is over a million. We are proud to have created attractions like the longest light tunnel in Europe, 200 m long with over 300,000 LED points and the River of Light, which captivates the eyes and hearts of visitors while being in harmony with the natural surroundings of the Botanical Garden.

Garden of Lights Bucharest

Garden of Lights Bucharest

How long will the exhibition be open, and what are the recommendations for the optimal time to visit?

The exhibition will be opened until March 3, 2024, and the best time to visit the light show is in the evening or at night, when the darkness highlights the effects of the light and creates a mysterious and romantic atmosphere. Visitors are able to walk through the garden admiring the light installations and enjoying the beauty of the plants in a new way. Light and sound shows will create a multi-sensory experience. The exhibition is opened every day from 16 PM.

Are there plans for future collaborations or similar projects held by Wonderful Lighting in Romania?

We are investigating different options but we will be present again in Bucharest.

The exhibition is opened up until March 2024.