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Academy Street Artwork Projects (ASAP) presents GLOW
Glow is a temporary outdoor display of technology and light art installations on view in Downtown Cary. These pop-up installations illuminate the darkest part of winter, surprising and delighting viewers when the artworks are discovered. GLOW will create a dynamic sense of place that adds energy to the street environment, creating memories and moments of celebration for all who encounter each work of art.
Apply Now for GLOW 2027!
We are accepting submissions on a rolling basis for future GLOW exhibitions!
Cary's Annual Lantern Parade will kick-off this coming year's GLOW outdoor exhibition on Saturday, January 10, 2026! Join us as dozens brave the cold and gather with their lights and handcrafted paper lanterns to illuminate Downtown Cary Park together.
GLOW 2026 Installations
Bryant Holsenbeck : A Gathering of Moons
Location: Post Office
As an environmental artist, Bryant collects detritus–everyday objects which were used and thrown away, and makes them into art. These works are about our environment and our culture. Fishing line, pulled from the ocean by Duke Marine Lab, finds a new purpose in adorning a collection of large glowing structures, inspired by the beauty and intricacies of Saturn's many moons. Teens in the community have the opportunity to be involved in Bryant's creative process and see the potential of the discarded.
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
Brittney Flood: Light Murals
Location: Parking Deck
Britt Flood's works of public art aim to give inactivated spaces visual poetry. The abstracted, decorative, mistletoe inspired motif nestled within the existing architectural frames of the parking deck will bring an impactful lighting display to downtown!
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
Julia Gartrell
Location: TBD
Julia Gartrell is a sculptor who uses wood, textiles, native clays, plaster, bric-a-brac and found objects to interrogate material usage in traditional Appalachian craft and American culture. Reuse of material and “making do” are central to her explorations. Oral history, lore, and relics are among the things gathered for her practice. A fascination with quilts, their seemingly simple geometry and underling complexity, inspires her illuminated installations. From triangles and squares come myriad patterns, many of which have symbolic meanings and cultural significance.
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
Robin Vuchnich: Light Projection
Location: Ivey Ellington
As part of GLOW in Cary NC, from January – mid-February 2026, XO Immersive will design, engineer, and install a projection mapping onto the historic Ivey Ellington house in Downtown Cary. The installation will feature light art created by New Media Artist, Robin Vuchnich. Via video mapping techniques; the artwork will appear to conform to the unique architectural details of the historic house. Animating different designs to inspire wonder, curiosity, and attention to the structure; a unique canvas for a public art activation, entertainment, and historical relevance. We are excited to collaborate closely with the City of Cary to bring this project to life while bringing attention to the newly renovated building as a treasured community landmark.
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
Helen Seebold: Meditation Labyrinth
location: Ivy Ellington lawn
Thoughtfully arranged solar lights form a labyrinth of soft white color. Reflective of candle light, this interactive installation forms a meditative experience. The artist's love of nature and interest in ancient global traditions fuels her creativity, inviting the viewer to reflect on the beauty of the living Earth and their place in it.
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
Erik Beerbower: Find Your Happy Place Light Sculpture
Location: Downtown Cary Park near Library
Life sometimes makes it hard to enjoy it. We live in a time of uncertainty. Political divisiveness, social divisions, economic hardships, presents constant challenges. It sometimes takes a while to feel the joys of happiness. Happiness takes time to cultivate. This sculpture is a guide to help all of us to remember the importance of finding joy and happiness in our day to day lives.
Not actual art that will be featured. For conceptual purposes only
To learn more about past GLOW exhibits, visit our
GLOW Archives
In the news, WRAL - Whimsy & Wonder. Jan 16, 2024
Interested in participating in future GLOW? Contact emily.morrison@carync.gov and denise.dickens@carync.gov
