Artin Light commissioned for the opening event of The Seam Digital Campus phase one

Creative and technical lighting design studio Artin Light has been commissioned for the lighting, animation and soundscape of the launch event for phase one of The Seam Digital Campus. 

The company will host two public engagement sessions from 4pm to 8.30pm at The Civic on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 November during Bright Nights, giving residents the chance to learn more about the three Yorkshire Rose sculptures, explore their technological capabilities, and add a community voice to their future programming. 

They have formed a collaborative team with Yorkshire-based artist Jamie House and sound designer Chris Hughes for the event. The group will work closely with students at Barnsley College, giving them the opportunity to supplement their learning with the real-life experience of co-producing the light and sound show which will be seen at the opening event. 

The sculptures are the headline feature of phase one works on The Seam, which are due to be completed in spring 2026. The work will redevelop the lower Seam, adding a beautiful new urban park with three separate high-quality natural gardens and improved parking facilities.  

The central sculpture, which will stand 15m tall, has been named the 'Mater' (Mother) Rose, while the two additional 12m sculptures have been named the 'Pruna' (Coal) Rose and 'Vitrum' (Glass) Rose, reflecting the industrial heritage of the borough. 

They’re programmed to incorporate lighting displays and music, creating an immersive experience for visitors during town centre events. This combination of light and sound will transform the sculptures into a vibrant spectacle that enhances the town's evening atmosphere. 

At night, they will be illuminated in a way that highlights their intricate designs, making them a captivating visual feature. 

Robin Franklin, Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: "We're incredibly excited to have Artin on board to support the opening event of phase one for The Seam Digital Campus. 

"The light and sound capabilities of the Yorkshire Rose sculptures will make them a bold and unique addition to our thriving town centre which we can use to enhance our fabulous events programme. 

"Artin will play a key role in the event, working alongside Barnsley College to ensure students on creative courses have an opportunity to have their input into co-producing the spectacular and immersive show we'll see on the night. 

"The Seam is a key strategic location in our ambition to be the UK's leading digital town, and we're looking forward to seeing phase one works completed next spring." 

Luke Artingstall, Founder of Artin, added: "We’re incredibly proud and honoured to be part of the team on the delivery of the world class Seam Digital Campus project with Barnsley Council. 

“For me, the stunning and unique Yorkshire Rose sculptures represent strength and unity in the local community, as well as the industrial heritage of Barnsley and the connecting boroughs. 

“They’re truly world class in design, fabrication, and technology, and this also shows a real progress and ambition which we hope will provide inspiration for the local community.” 

Most of the funding for phase one of The Seam Digital Campus has come from the government's Future High Streets Fund, a distinct initiative with strict criteria as to what the money can be spent on. This includes proposals that demonstrate a clear vision for the future of high streets and town centres and demonstrate an ability to attract private sector investment.   

The funding is being used to support improvements to council services, such as the improved car park and road works. However, this must be part of a larger regeneration project like The Seam. 

For more information about The Seam Digital Campus, go to barnsley.gov.uk/SeamDigitalCampus. 

Find out more about Artin at artinlight.co.uk.

Barnsley Bright Nights is a free event presented by Barnsley Arts & Events and funded by Arts Council England, Barnsley Council, The Glass Works, UK Government, Visit Barnsley, Alhambra Shopping Centre, Barnsley College, Barnsley Libraries and brsk. See visitbarnsley.co.uk/brightnights for more information.