THE PICK: IT's one of the most recognisable buildings in Liverpool, the city’s very own Fort Knox, built in the days when the city was worth a bob or two.
The lettering, made up of brickwork, told its own story of Coleman’s Fireproof Depository in Park Road, Dingle.
These days the four-story indestructible building is used as a home for an array of mobile phone masts. It’s a long time since its fireproof vaults were used for their intended purpose.
On Saturday, though, the Coleman building will spring to life as a backdrop for a stunning Christmas show.
Illuminos: One they made earlierHistoric images of the Dingle area, interspersed with film of carol-singers, are to be projected onto the four-storey Coleman’s Fireproof Depository building.
The light show will be staged by Illuminos, who specialise in creating inventive and memorable artworks. Their recent work has included Treasured, the Titanic commemoration at shown at Liverpool Cathedral.
For their Coleman’s event, Illuminos has worked with local artist Alan Murray to gather material. It will include vintage films of the area donated by local people, a look at some of the famous sons and daughters of Liverpool 8, such as Gerry Marsden, Robbie Fowler, Billy Fury, Arthur Askey and Alan Rudkin, and films of children of six local primary schools singing carols.
“It is going to be a truly stunning show, “ said Councillor Steve Munby, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, “We are going to have the biggest outdoor cinema in the country."
The light show is the centrepiece of the free Christmas celebration which includes a grotto, food stalls and, of course, a visit by Father Christmas.
This event is one a series of initiatives to celebrate Liverpool 8 and its history, including a new heritage trail and the siting of a model of the Titanic in the area - although not this one. They have been part-funded by Tesco as part of the agreement for its new store in Park Road.
The Christmas event is also funded by the city council and Plus Dane.
*Illuminos Light Spectacular, Coleman Fireproof Depositort, Park Road, Dingle, L8. Saturday 15 December, 5.30pm–7.30pm. Free.
THE REST
Whale meet again
Whale Song is a sea story set in a library; a love story cast out to sea.
The show was a sell-out when it played for one night at St Bride's Church in July. Find out why it's so special this Saturday afternoon.
Part 'Jackanory' for adults, part illustrated song, Whale Song: A Land Locked Love Story was originally part of the Sea Odyssey event but illness forced a postponement.
It tells the story of a whale called Lucky, who comes ashore in Liverpool and walks through the city centre in search of lost love.cca Sharp, songs by Mark Magill, visuals by Gill Smith.
*Whalesong, a Landlocked Love Story, Saturday Dec 15, 4pm, Bluecoat, School Lane, L1 3BX. Tickets, £5 from here
Someday my prints will come....
...is a line you hear rarely in these digital camera times.
But there are prints galore for sale this weekned at Dot Art's Liverpool Art Fair: Print Edition
Camp and Furnace is the venue, where you will find a wide selection of locally produced original and limited edition prints by over 30 artists, all for sale for under £150, "pocket friendly prices", say organisers.
Show us your etchings.
*Liverpool Art Fair: Print Edition, Camp and Furnace, 67 Greenland Street, Liverpool L1 0BY, Sat-Sun, Dec 15-16, 12-6pm and 12-8pm. Visit here for more details.
Arty party
Similar to the above, but with music.
You get two events for the price of one, they say. And look, that price is free!
View the art, meet the artists, browse the shop (open 1pm-6pm, Monday to Saturday, prices range from 50p for a fridge magnet to £400 for the most expensive painting) or bring an instrument and join in the music making. It's Christmas shopping and and a bit o' culcha.
*Winter Exhibition 6 - 8 pm followed by Basement Jam 8 - 10 pm, Friday December 14, Collage Collectables & Fine Art, The Basement 16 - 18 Newington, L1 4ED
Collage Collectables
