LUMINEX 2.0: A Sparkling Success

A night of wonder in South Park was created with projected sound and video feeds, live performances, immersive artworks, and a digital drone activation on the walls of 12 neighborhood buildings the night of September 17 at Luminex 2.0. The projected art installations “explored the entanglement between realities and dreamscape illusions, our physical and digital worlds in conflict, and change as a constant driving force”.  More simply stated, the whole show was a HOOT!       Adding to the evening were special happy hour and offers by local South Park businesses and food trucks.

As Ellen Riotto, Executive Director of South Park Business Improvement District, who co-hosted the event stated in a recent interview:

SPNA:  How did you think the whole thing came off?  Were you satisfied?

RIOTTO: “I was tremendously satisfied with the event. By co-hosting this event, we hoped to bring residents and visitors to South Park in a safe and accessible way.  Early estimates show a 20,000-person turnout, and 0 incidents of crime or vandalism.”

SPNA:  What positive effects were created for the South Park community by this event?

RIOTTO: “Every business that has provided feedback on their experience before, during, and after the event has reported a positive impact in terms of sales and logistics.  We learned several lessons from last year and implemented solutions that benefitted business owners.  Additionally, this event puts South Park on the map as a thought-leader in the world of arts and culture, and how technology can enhance one’s experience of art.  We proved that art is for everyone, and that this neighborhood is open to everyone.”

SPNA: What are your plans for next year’s LUMINEX 3.0?

RIOTTO: “We’re currently drafting a report on the successes of this year’s event that will aid us in the fundraising process for next year’s event.  Curatorially, I look to our NOW Art LA partners, but in terms of neighborhood stakeholder involvement, I will be using his report to get our property and business owners on board. Perhaps that means expanding the footprint of the event or maybe businesses that typically close in the evenings stay open later.  Ultimately, I want everyone in South Park (and LA!) to have LUMINEX 3.0 marked on their calendars in 2023.”

We now wait for the date for next year’s LUMINEX!

By John Nilsson