Lightstream Is the New Public Artwork That's Helping to Enhance Pedestrian Safety in Sydney's York Lane
This public artwork highlights how creativity can have real-world positive impacts on safety.
Central Sydney is looking a little brighter these days. That's because YCK Laneways has unveiled Lightstream, a new public lighting artwork located in York Lane that's helping to achieve a community good. Produced by renowned artists Fausto Brusamolino and James Peter Brown, in collaboration with YCK Laneways – a collective of independently operated businesses situated around York, Clarence and Kent Streets – this illuminating project aims to enhance safety and transform the pedestrian experience in the CBD, particularly for women, girls and gender-diverse people.
While York Street serves as a key shared path through this buzzing inner-city precinct, its dark and unsafe nature has a discouraging effect on people. To rectify this, the YCK Laneways Association engaged government with their concerns, leading to Lightstream being commissioned by the NSW Government's Community Improvement District (CID) Pilot. Now, this once intimidating backstreet has a much brighter appeal.
"Public spaces should feel safe and welcoming for everyone. Lightstream is a beautiful and practical intervention that directly addresses concerns raised by the community, ensuring York Lane is a vibrant and accessible part of Sydney's nightlife," says YCK Laneways President Nick White.
More than just a solid light, Lightstream remains ambient when the lane is empty before bursting to life with pulsing, colourful energy as people approach. Guided by community engagement, Lightstream's design was produced in response to women documenting their perspectives on pedestrian safety. Throughout the testing phase, the creative team sought and addressed feedback, hosting two evening 'walkshops' to generate real-world observations.
"By incorporating warm lighting, we are not only enhancing the aesthetics of the laneway but also actively improving perceptions of safety. Research shows that warm-toned lighting fosters a greater sense of security for women, which is critical for encouraging people to come out at night," explains Vice President and Treasurer Karl Schlothauer.
Produced by Cobalt Engagement for YCK Laneways, the Lightstream initiative highlights the potential of creative interventions when it comes to positively impacting urban precincts, like the one surrounding York Lane. With the CID pilot program continuing to collect data on how similar projects could transform city spaces into safer environments, don't be surprised to see more installations like Lightstream illuminating our streets in the future.
Peter James Brown
Peter James Brown
Lightstream is located in York Lane, Wynyard. Head to the YCK Laneways website for more information.
