Glow in the dark: Georgetown public installation draws crowds during seventh year

Glow in the dark

Georgetown public installation draws crowds during seventh year

Daniela Abrams News Editor

“Georgetown Glow” is an annual art installation featuring five up and coming talented artists who display their work in multiple locations across Georgetown. The installation is entirely outside, making it the perfect activity for a warm spring night. The spring 2021 light installation runs from early April to late June. There are five installations this spring with different light fixtures that are best illuminated at night. This year’s Glow is a two part series spanning over six months, with the Spring Glow running until June 27, and the Summer Glow running until the end of August. The first installation, which is on Wisconsin Avenue north of M street, consists of beautiful softly lit lanterns hanging from a tree. This installation is titled “The Wishes Within,” and celebrates the emotion of hope and delights of dreams. It serves as a reflection of this past year and the dreams that helped people through the paralyzing fear many have experienced during the pandemic. This installation is focused on bringing serenity and peace, and it encourages viewers to interact with the art by holding a wish in their heart and stepping inside the designated circle to bring the wish to life. This is my personal favorite because it is an extremely calming piece, helping the viewer feel grounded while making their wish. Located in the Georgetown Park Plaza alleyway, “The Weight of A Rainbow,” consists of beautiful rainbow lights hanging from strings. The artist encourages viewers to lay under the piece and listen to the beautiful voices of eight LGBTQ+ individuals. The lights are programmed to mimic the movement of the voices. Artist Stephanie Mercedes titled this piece “The Weight of a Rainbow” because she wanted it to reflect two sides of the LGBTQ+ community. Mercedes wanted the piece to reflect the side full of joy, pride and happiness, along with the other side that is full of sorrow, shame and discrimination. “I wanted to create something that is so beautiful and so visually alluring and sort of satisfactory and also what most people assume is connected to the LGBTQ+ community,” Mercedes said. In front of the Grace Episcopal Church, “Madness Method” by Chris Combs and David Greenfield Boyce illustrates the magical times we live in. We have access to so much knowledge that can often be jumbled up and overwhelming; however, when looking at it from a certain perspective it all comes together. This piece is full of many different lanterns and appears to be a flickering mess, until from a certain angle, it converges into one. Located at the Waterfront, the “Light Pavilion” by Edwin Baruch mixes historic architecture with contemporary lighting. The soft lighting of the structure makes its resemble a hologram. It serves as a reference to the illuminated monuments and their historical significance located throughout D.C. The final structure by artist Nara Park is titled “The Beginning of Everything.” This installation sits in Washington Park and is inspired by the Holsinger Meteorite. Park describes the meteorite as the tangible connection between cosmos and human society, a reminder that we are part of a larger universe. This is a perfect activity for nice nights in Georgetown, as the installations are spread out and require you to walk from location to location, but are all within five minutes of each other.

Photo by Christopher Chern Photo by Daniela Abrams, LT 24 May 2021 By the Numbers 5

different art installations 27 of June is the last day the installation is open 3 additional alley installations, which will open during early summer months

did you know?

Georgetown is the oldest part of DC and was its own city before the district was founded in 1790.

A look in the closet

A guide to some of summer 2021’s hottest fashion trends

Ellie Levine Reporter

Graphic Tees

While graphic tees never go out of style, there is sure to be a surge of them this summer. From goofy sayings to logos, they prove to be very diverse in ways to wear. From skirts to shorts, the easy-going vibe they give off makes for a perfect summer look.

Mom Jean Shorts

Last fall brought mom jeans into play, and the warm weather isn’t going to get rid of that. These long shorts provide a way to bring sophisticated, high fashion outfits to summer. They’re also a perfect pick if you need a last-minute outfit because they always create a classy look.

Monochrome

A monochrome outfit, where different shades of the same color are paired together, is always a perfect way to go for a sophisticated or playful look. It is a really extensive area to explore and there are so many avenues to take. There is a lot of creativity required, but that makes summer the perfect time to experiment with monochrome.

Funky Pants

A statement piece is the key to any outfit, and funky pants are the perfect choice to add to a summer ensemble. They provide a unique element that brings things to the next level and are often more comfortable than a typical pair of jean shorts. Paired with a plain top, these pants are a great choice for a distinctive look.

Illustration by Eitan Malkus

Chunky Jewelery

Accessories are making a big comeback this summer. They can be a simple way to elevate any look, especially with the character of big rings, chains and earrings. It’s an easy way to transform any outfit from casual to chic. There are many places to purchase these types of jewelry, although they are also relatively easy to make at home and make for a very fun art project.