Way of Light
Óscar Vázquez and Rafael Doctor
Gran Vía is undoubtedly one of the most important elements of Madrid's urban layout and architecture. It has witnessed all kinds of extraordinary events since King Alfonso XII ordered work to begin on its construction in 1910. One hundred years as the main artery of life in Madrid, a century as the stage upon which every new arrival focuses their hopes and dreams. Conceived as a benchmark of modernity, Gran Vía has been the meeting place of 20th-century intellectuals, and even served as an impromptu bullring in 1928 when a bull escaped from the Vista Alegre Bullring and caused a general panic on its sidewalks. An essential component of the spirit of "the Movida" in the 80s, this street has been immortalized in the painting of Antonio López and the music of Antonio Flores, and has provided the perfect backdrop for scenes in films by Berlanga, Álex de la Iglesia and Alejandro Almenábar.
Jumping the gun on the celebration of its centennial, La noche en blanco has decided to make art using the famous building fronts and spaces of this singular avenue, rerouting traffic and altering its appearance with light shows for Madrid's citizens to enjoy. The numerous streetlights and spotlights along the street will be turned off and a new lighting system, created especially for the occasion by Óscar Vázquez, will change our perception of the Gran Vía, turning it into an unforgettable Way of Light.
The art director of this activity for La noche en blanco is guest curator Rafael Doctor, and the show will be produced by the lighting engineer Óscar Vázquez, in collaboration with the public illumination service of Madrid City Hall.
