On a frigid recent December evening, a group of strangers huddled around a glowing tunnel. Despite the temperatures and cutting wind, many paused on the sidewalk to play with a nearby control panel, eager to find out what surprising light effect would occur with the push of a button.
As sunset arrives earlier, many Raleighites opt to retreat indoors for food, drink, and conversation rather than walk around downtown. But the spontaneous socialization around the 12-foot-tall art installation—named simply “The TUNNEL”—feels like a small Christmas miracle during a season that can often be lonely.
Raleigh’s Illuminate Art Walk, now on display through January 6, makes downtown feel a little more warm and welcoming. Local and international artists contribute to the annual holiday light display, which this year includes 19 exhibits displayed on and around Fayetteville Street. In 2024, for the first time, visitors can also take a guided tour to learn more about the meaning behind each work of art.
“It really is a manifestation of the community coming together,” says Lucy McInnis, events director for the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, adding that the project began in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. “It’s a symbol of how resilient and collaborative the downtown community is.”
Some residents may already be familiar with elements of the art walk, including the giant Christmas tree and illuminated ornament in front of the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.
But there are plenty of new installations to look forward to as well, such as a proximity-sensitive sculptural piece from Montana artist Brian W. Brush, whimsical topiary dinosaurs adorned with lights, and a surreal underwater seascape made from repurposed fabrics by Raleigh textile artist Jen Stone.
Stone’s eco-conscious art matches the spirit of several other installations by Raleigh locals, such as the collection of coral-esque sculptures by artist Jane Cheek and the seven-story projection of colorful flowers at 1 Exchange Plaza by new media artist Robin Vuchnich.
“Even when we don’t intend to come up with a theme, I feel like it always somehow happens,” McInnis says. “Last year, we were really playing with scale. This year, the theme I have found is the merging of man and technology.”
Art aficionados may have their own opinions about the Illuminate Art Walk, but the real reward of the exhibit is in seeing faces light up—not just in the neon glow of “The TUNNEL,” but in the joy and wonder at these unexpected additions to downtown Raleigh.
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