Let There Be Light on December 8
Grace Kinsman, staff writer
On Friday, Dec. 8, from 6-9 p.m., the V. Earl Dickinson Building will be lit up for the Let There Be Light event. This event is held annually on the longest night of the year, this year will mark the 11th celebration. The special night is spearheaded by two dedicated art enthusiasts. Beryl Solla is an art professor at PVCC who works closely with artist James Yates to ensure the event’s success. Solla calls this event “the brain child of James Yates.” Yates suggested the idea to Solla as a one-time event, but after the overwhelming success and public demand they decided to turn it into a tradition.
The Let There Be Light event is a “huge community festival” says Solla. Over 3,000 people from all around come to PVCC to see the beautiful exhibits. Solla says that all ages are welcome and it is “great for the family.” The PVCC website urges spectators to “bundle up with coats and mittens, pick up a map of exhibits, and set out to explore the landscape in search of both large-scale and hidden installations that invite interaction, evoke wonder and delight, and inspire reflection.”
Solla says that every year is different and fresh. Each year different artists are showcased which keeps each show unique. Her favorite part of the night is when it is in full swing and everyone is inside enjoying hot chocolate. She also loves that she sees everyone from her doctor to her neighbor together for a wonderful event.
The event isaccompanied by free snacks. Solla will be inside during the event giving out hot chocolate, hot cider, and banana bread. Spectators are asked to bring flashlights and dress as “enlightened beings” on the night of the event.
Solla added, “the event would not be possible without the support of the dean and the Piedmont administration.” In the case of bad weather, the event will be postponed to Dec. 9, from 6-9 p.m. Feel free to join the locals in celebrating this unique art exhibit on Dec. 8.
