Next week, iconic buildings in Liverpool will be illuminated by stunning projections as part of a one-of-a-kind visual arts production illustrating how the Covid-19 pandemic affected and bonded communities.
‘Visible Virals’ is a series of pop-up works that bring the city’s Public Health Annual Report to life in public areas and events throughout the city.
A surprise campaign will see some of the city’s most prominent structures lighted after dark from Monday, March 7 to Sunday, March 13.
Local graphic design business apt.creative created the visual artwork in collaboration with Liverpool residents, using projections designed by the city’s renowned creative media and technology studio Focal Studios.
They’ll chronicle the experiences of Liverpool residents, providing viewers a glimpse into the lives of different people and towns throughout the lockdowns.
To add to the surprise, the particular places and dates will not be divulged ahead of time; however, anyone who comes across them is encouraged to picture them and share them on social media with the hashtag #wearescousers.
Visible Virals is a collaboration between Culture Liverpool and the city’s Public Health team, with the goal of provoking public discussion and reflection on the city’s experience with Coronavirus, as well as encouraging resilience and boosting community spirit as we move into the next phase of the pandemic response and recovery.
On the second anniversary of the initial lockdown, on Wednesday, March 23, the climax will take place at the Museum of Liverpool, where digital displays and projections will employ archive documents from the pandemic, as well as interactive games and installations.
A group of Liverpool-based arts organisations spearheaded the project, with apt.creative spearheading the charge in collaboration with Focal Studios and Def Proc.
Jen Cleary, Director North, Arts Council England, said:
“We know how important experiencing and participating in arts and culture is to our health and wellbeing and I’m delighted that the Arts Council has supported this project.
“The pandemic has had a huge effect on all our lives and it’s great that the experiences of this community will be captured and shared as part of Visible Virals, in celebration of the way that people came together during lockdown and looking ahead to how we move forward together into the future.”
You can find out more information about Visible Virals here www.cultureliverpool.co.uk/WeAreScousers
