Speed of Light

About the project

NVA’s Speed of Light is based on the interaction of movement, light and sound. As a public art performance – and through the stunning photography and film it inspires – it takes a look at familiar perspectives of a city or rural setting.

We photographed the project during its development before premiering in 2012 on Arthur’s Seat as part of the Edinburgh International Festival when thousands of endurance runners wearing bespoke light suits journeyed around their ‘stage’ in specially choreographed movements to a bespoke soundtrack.  Speed of Light then went on to be staged with runners in Manchester and in Germany’s Ruhr, each location having its own unique choreography and music.  To celebrate the Tour de France Grand Départ in Yorkshire, NVA collaborated with Phoenix Dance Theatre and Sustrans to create a live performance featuring a peloton of illuminated cyclists.  We were very fortunate to be asked to capture these very beautiful events.

Shapes, colours, luminosity, rhythm and movement make wonderful images whether they be stills, moving or time lapse. We have worked with NVA for years and take great pleasure in getting involved throughout the development stages and capturing the end results that, as you’ll see from the images above and our Speed of Light Ruhr film, are always a feast for the senses.

You can find lots more information and images about this event at NVA’s site and see some more in our events gallery.

See more of our event photography here.