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Illuminated Swim to make a splash at GL1 Leisure Centre

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Swimmers are being offered a once in a lifetime experience to escape into a sensory world, wrapped in colourful light and soothing sounds as part of the Bright Nights Festival.

Illuminated Swim by international artist Dr Tine Bech is set to transform GL1 leisure centre into an art installation.

The immersive light installation will see coloured clouds inspired by the paintings of Rothko, hover over the water at the GL1 Leisure Centre alongside music created by young people from Gloucester-based The Music Works.

The idea being that the event, which runs from March 2-6, is like a painting that the audience can immerse themselves into.

It’s part of the Bright Nights, the festival which aims to light up the city and is backed by local partners including Gloucester City Council and Gloucester Business Improvement District and is part funded by Arts Council England.

The installation was originally commissioned for the London, 2012 Cultural Olympiad. It was awarded the Inspire Mark, a 2012 Olympic initiative, which was a community and participatory programme that enabled non-commercial organisations across the UK to link their events and projects to the London 2012 Games.

A variety of sessions at GL1 will be available including evening and daytime swims, as well as family and adult sessions.

Councillor Andy Lewis, cabinet member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “There have been some fantastic events being held as part of the Bright Nights Festival and it’s becoming a highlight of the city’s calendar. The Illuminated Swim is a really original way to bring sport and culture together and I urge residents not to miss this opportunity to take part.”

Jacquie Douglas, Chief Executive of Aspire Sports and Cultural Trust, said: “Aspire Sports and Cultural Trust, who manage and operate GL1 Leisure Centre is extremely excited to welcome customers for a unique swimming experience! We encourage you to come along to see and experience how this internationally recognised artist transforms our pool into a stunning artwork. We are proud to be combining leisure, sport and physical activity with the arts in the landmark community facility of GL1. Being physical in colourful water-based surroundings is a once in a lifetime experience.”

Visit www.visitgloucester.co.uk to swim or to spectate in the seated viewing area. Booking is essential.