Experience the Magic of PVCC’s Annual Let There Be Light Event

As the darkness of winter approaches, PVCC’s Visual Arts Department will hold the 17th annual Let There Be Light exhibit around the V. Earl Dickinson Building. The free event will feature a variety of illuminated artworks and performances by local artists, students, and organizations.

The event was originally started by former Art Department Chairperson Beryl Solla and her husband James Yates. The one-night outdoor art exhibition began in response to people hibernating through the winter months because of how dark and cold it is outside. According to event organizer and Assistant Professor of Art Fenella Belle, “Their idea was to create one magical evening where people come out of their shells and use light as a symbol and a vehicle to get people to come out and spend time together outdoors.”

Now, 17 years later, about 3,000 people attend Let There Be Light, making it one of PVCC’s largest events of the year. “We’ve had artists who have been doing this every single year since. It’s a tremendous gift from the artists to the community. Light is not a medium that everybody uses all the time in their art, so it kind of creates a unique opportunity for artists to play in a new medium,” said Belle.

This year will include artworks ranging from sea-creature puppets, luminescent interactive sculptures, lanterns created by the PVCC community, and an outdoor pottery kiln. Additionally, there will be food trucks on-site and complimentary hot chocolate and warm apple cider. It’s recommended that attendees bring flashlights and dress warmly for the cold weather. The event will be held on Dec. 8 from 6-9 p.m. If it rains, the event will be held the following day at the same time. More details are available at the official Let There Be Light website.