Kari Kola reveals local inspirations behind 2026 Lighting the Sound, set to be largest light show of its kind

The Finnish light artist behind the epic plans to illuminate the landscape of Albany’s King George Sound in vivid colour next year has revealed the inspiration for his large-scale 2026 project. Lighting The Sound — the brainchild of Kari Kola — will see rays of light projected across 1000ha of the rugged terrain of Torndirrup National Park and Vancouver Peninsula for three weekends next year. Presented by arts not-for-profit FORM Building a State of Creativity, it is expected to be the largest outdoor installation of this type ever staged and be visible from the Albany city centre for four hours across the nine-day total run. The project marks the Nordic artist’s Australian debut, having previously lit up the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum and Stonehenge. Kari Kola said the landscape is an “ideal setting” for the project, which serves as a focal point in Albany’s 2026 bicentenary calendar and is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across the State. “The presence of water adds a reflective dimension, allowing us to create a vast, panoramic experience for the audience,” he said. “At the heart of it all is the site itself and the rich history of the area, which form the foundation and starting point for the work.” Inspiration for the two-colour palette will be drawn from the bush tucker plant bloodroot, following conversations with Menang Noongar people. Kari Kola said the hundreds of LED lights projected from about 15 light towers will be used to “create red roots reaching toward the sky, connecting the land with the cosmos” and offer an aurora-like visual effect. “I hadn’t known much about the detailed history before,” he said. “The foundation of the work grew out of conversations, stories, and the heritage of the place. “The entire concept is rooted in the Menang people and the bloodroot; to understand the history, to talk about this unique cross-over cooperation and to realise the deep connection with the land of the Aboriginal people.” FORM chief executive Tabitha McMullan said the Albany community played a pivotal role in bringing the event to life. “Their support, participation, and pride in the project are what make it truly special,” she said. “This ongoing connection fosters a shared sense of ownership and celebration, ensuring that Lighting The Sound is not just an event, but a meaningful experience that resonates with everyone involved.” She said the scale of the installation will bring deserved attention to Albany’s stunning landscapes. “With Kari Kola’s epic installation set to be the largest of its kind ever staged, and marking the artist’s Australian premiere, we anticipate global attention turning to this southern corner of WA and its breathtaking landscapes,” she said. Several site visits have been conducted and consultations with Elders will be ongoing before scaffolding for the project begins in February next year. Lighting the Sound will run on March 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29.