Following the Arts by the Sea festival held on 30 September to 2 October, Andrea Francis said: “Arts by the Sea 2022 was a huge success. Audiences came out in droves to enjoy the fantastic array of cultural experiences on offer.

“The undoubted star of the show was the Luminarium where people queued for up to two hours and still came out saying it was worth it.’

This awe inspiring experience involved walking without shoes through three large domes illuminated by light shining through coloured plastic in bright patterns. The ‘other worldly’ domes were situated in the Lower Gardens.

Other highlights were the annual projection mapping with local group Funky Little Choir and tunes from House Gospel Choir; art / sport mash-up Skate Ramp and Skate Park and the closing parade the Carnival by the Sea which brought together community participants from across Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole in a united celebration of culture.

Andrea Francis said: “The atmosphere was joyful over the whole weekend as the festival showcased Bournemouth’s beautiful outdoor spaces, and brought together a diverse, accessible and inspirational range of free cultural experiences for everyone.”

Arts by the Sea’s last event of the season is Play Christchurch on Saturday 8 October – the festival’s first pop-up Arts by the Sea in Christchurch.

For the first time, Christchurch residents will be able to experience a tailored, playful programme of participatory and intriguing art in its many forms across Saxon Square and Druitt Gardens and in unusual pop-up spaces around the town.