Blog

With its dazzling light art, illuminated installations and jaw-dropping projections, Vivid Sydney is one of the most photographed events in the world. But how do you uniquely capture something that almost everyone else in the city is taking photos of, too? This year, seek out a different perspective. With tips from the Vivid Sydney photographic team, here’s our guide to capturing the city's soul from unexpected vantage points and photographer-approved views. 

Vivid Sydney returns in 2022 as a bigger-than-ever multi-sensory ode to the very soul of this magical harbour city and its people. We've got over 70 deals on offer from our incredible partners but we've rounded up our top 10 for you right here.  

With 25 events involving First Nations artists and thinkers, there’s plenty of ways to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at this year’s Vivid Sydney, which will take over the city from 27 May to 18 June. From seeing the hottest artists debut on the hallowed stages of Sydney Opera House to thought-provoking debates on racism, storytelling and more, here are nine experiences not to be missed at this year’s festival.  

In this Q&A with singer Marcia Hines, we learn about her history with gospel music, why she loves Vivid Sydney, and what to expect on the new album at its world premiere during the festival. On 9 and 10 June, Marcia Hines will be performing her album, The Gospel According to Marcia, at St Stephen’s Uniting Church, 197 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000.

From 27 May to 18 June, the soul of the city takes centre stage. Some of the greatest artists, musicians and thinkers from Australia and the world will be on show at Vivid Sydney. And the best part? You don’t have to spend a cent to experience this celebration of creativity.

You’re never too young to soak up the soul of the city. Vivid Sydney is the perfect place to let the kids’ creativity and imagination run wild as they explore a live canvas of light, music and ideas. Taking over the city from 27 May to 18 June, Vivid Sydney will be diving into what makes Sydney tick. It’s a time to inspire little hearts and minds to learn more about our people and our place. Use our top tips to plan your trip and make the most of the festival. You’ll be creating bright memories for the whole family.  

Where is it? Customs House Who made it? Ken Done and Spinifex What is it? A colourful love letter to Sydney

This year’s Vivid Sydney breaks a lot of new ground. For the first time in the festival’s history, the lights, music and ideas are all centred around a theme – The Soul of Our City.

Gill Minervini, Vivid Sydney Festival Director and Light Curator “In 2022, Vivid Sydney dives deep into the essence of Sydney’s soul, exploring what defines the character of great cities. What makes them tick, what makes them unique, what it is that makes us love them and, what makes them powerful catalysts for change? This year I’m really excited about shining a light on some of our city’s lesser-known spaces, along with our icons, delivering bold, inclusive and innovative creative experiences.”  

Creating a kaleidoscope of colour on Sydney’s iconic places and secret spaces, this year’s Vivid Sydney light installations will enliven the soul of the city from 27 May to 18 June. This year’s 8km Light Walk is the longest in the festival’s history, stretching from Sydney Opera House to Central Station. Here are four mesmerising art works to get you excited about what’s to come.  

It’s been over two years since light's on, and in that time, we’ve been working on how to make the best things about Vivid Sydney even better for its 12th year. We spoke to festival director Gill Minervini about her new creative direction, what goes on behind the scenes and how Vivid Sydney will light up more of the city in 2022. Q: Next year Vivid Sydney's creative direction will focus on “the soul of Sydney”. Can you tell me how this theme came about?