The interactive lighting display at James Street Plaza is now complete, helping celebrate Hamilton’s colourful and unique history.

James Street Plaza, Hamilton, and the new lighting activation. Photo supplied.

The interactive light display was developed as part of the City of Newcastle’s makeover of the community space.

The launch of the lighting display was the final step in upgrading the plaza, which now has new seating, paving, landscaping, and artworks installed.

In June, the community was asked to vote on their favourite of three lighting designs put forward by the University of Newcastle’s Future Art Science & Technology Lab (FASTLab).

The “Microcosmic Mosaic” concept proved to be the favourite and was developed into a ten-minute animation.

The animation plays on a loop, lighting up the space for four hours each evening, celebrating Hamilton’s unique character and history.

Hamilton local Saul Sullivan said the changes were a well-overdue addition to the suburb. 

“[James Street Plaza] has always been a bit of a questionable area, so it’s great that it’s undergone a facelift so the community can use it to its full potential.”

Councillor Carol Duncan said the lighting display would activate the space at night and improve safety in the area.

“The community told us they wanted a safer, more appealing place for people to spend time during both the day and the night,” Cr Duncan said.

“Once COVID-19 restrictions lift, we look forward to seeing the community come together and activate the space with music, markets and food.”

In addition, the history of Hamilton is also reflected in artworks in the renewed plaza, informed by the research of local historian Ruth Cotton and through collaboration with the Newcastle Museum.

Information source: Media release, City of Newcastle