Password Reset
Everything is where you left it.
Cry for Help is a thought-provoking series of interactive light sculptures by Artist Ben Everard. Commissioned by Quays Culture and the RHS Bridgewater, the light sculptures were displayed at two winter light festivals; Lightwaves Salford and Glow at RHS Bridgewater. The sculptures, consisting of seven insect-inspired forms (butterfly, bee, damselfly, moth, spider, caterpillar and a fly) were designed to raise awareness of the decline in insect populations.
Ben’s inspiration for Cry for Help was drawn from the patterns in nature, particularly the wings of insects and the interplay of light. Nature has long been a source of inspiration for Ben and he wanted to create an artwork that reflected the delicate balance between humans and the natural world. The geometric LED and sensor-based sculptures appear fractured and dim when untouched, lit only at 25%. When the audience approaches and interacts with the sculptures, they light up fully, symbolising the potential for renewal and the vitality of nature when human engagement and awareness are present.
This dynamic, interactive element was central to the artwork’s success. It allowed audiences to experience a visual transformation that highlighted the fragile nature of insect populations and the role humans play in their survival. The concept was timely, addressing the ongoing environmental concerns surrounding insect decline, a problem intensified by urbanisation and habitat loss.
The installation of Cry for Help at two distinct venues offered a unique opportunity to engage with different audiences in two contrasting environments.
The interactive nature of Cry for Help resonated with audiences, particularly families. The visual appeal of the sculptures, enhanced by the vibrant colours of the LED lights, drew children in, who were fascinated by the changing light patterns as they engaged with the sculptures. Ben explains, “It was fantastic to see Cry for Help’s impact extended beyond immediate visual engagement, it sparked intergenerational conversations on sustainability and allowed the audience to look at their own personal experiences of environmental change.”
Ben was mindful of the sustainability challenges associated with creating large-scale public art. In designing Cry for Help, Ben focused on using materials that would have a minimal environmental impact. Recycled materials, including glass, plywood, recycled plastic and aluminium, were used in the sculptures’ construction. This commitment to sustainable material use mirrored the themes of the artwork, reinforcing the importance of environmental consciousness at every stage of production.
Quays Culture, who curate and produce Lightwaves Salford, has long integrated environmentally focused artwork into its programming. Their commitment to sustainability was reflected not only in the works they showcased but also in their operational practices.
Kate Doyle, Head of Programme at Quays Culture, emphasised, “Measuring the environmental impact of our festival and taking steps to improve sustainability in every aspect, from light art materials to travel options, is crucial. To complement this we are part of the Light Up The North network and so are driven by a collaborative commitment to environmental responsibility. Integrating art with environmental awareness is a key part of our annual programming and Cry for Help was a perfect fit for this ethos.”
Quays Culture maintains their commitment to presenting at least one environmentally focused artwork per year, ensuring that their programming remains relevant to the ongoing climate conversation. Moving forward they will continue to improve data collection to track the effectiveness of these initiatives and expand communication with audiences about sustainable travel options to further reduce their carbon footprint.
Cry for Help is an example of how art can play a crucial role in raising environmental awareness in a way that is engaging, interactive and thought-provoking. By integrating sustainability into both the content and the material choices of the sculptures, Ben was able to create a meaningful dialogue around the pressing issue of insect population decline. Ben explains, “I am exploring opportunities to showcase Cry for Help at other light festivals and events to continue to raise awareness about insect decline and environmental issues.”
The artwork’s success at Lightwaves Salford and RHS Bridgewater Glow highlights the potential of public art to inspire change, educate audiences and contribute to larger environmental sustainability goals. As the conversation around climate change and biodiversity loss continues, the role of art in advocating for the planet will remain ever more significant.