LIGHTSTREAM

Sydney’s YCK Laneways precinct has unveiled ‘Lightstream’, a new public lighting artwork by renowned artists Fausto Brusamolino and James Peter Brown. Located in York Lane, Wynyard, this innovative installation is designed to enhance safety and transform the pedestrian experience, particularly for women, girls, and gender-diverse people.

Commissioned under the NSW Government’s Community Improvement District (CID) Pilot, ‘Lightstream’ is a direct response to concerns raised by the YCK Laneways Association regarding the safety of York Lane. As a key shared path in the precinct, the laneway is used by pedestrians, however, its dark and unsafe nature had been discouraging people to do more than quickly pass through to Wynyard Station.

Studies support the impact of lighting on public safety, with research indicating that warm lighting increases the perception of safety by reducing glare and shadows, providing a more inviting atmosphere. The ‘Lightstream’ installation has been shaped by community engagement, with women documenting their perceptions of safety before the artwork was designed and offering feedback during the testing phase through two evening Walkshops.

Produced by Cobalt Engagement, this initiative demonstrates the potential for creative interventions to positively impact urban precincts. The CID Pilot continues to gather valuable data on how such projects can enhance the attraction and experience of city spaces, with safety being a fundamental factor in their long-term success.

You can find out more about the CID Piliot here.