Gerry Hofstetter Renowned Swiss Artist Illuminates Washington National Cathedral

WASHINGTON, DC - Swiss lighting artist Gerry Hofstetter projected images ranging from abstracts of the Cathedral’s stained glass windows to faces of people of all races onto Washington National Cathedral as a call for national and global unity in a project entitled “Lighting to Unite.” From sunset to midnight on three evenings, May 9-11, the Cathedral’s south and west sides were illuminated in celebration of the Cathedral’s centennial, illustrating its mission of reconciliation and spotlighting its role as a spiritual beacon for the nation.

“Light is one our most powerful symbols—evoking a sense of possibility and new life. For three nights, illumination artist Gerry Hofstetter lit up the Cathedral against the night sky of Washington, D.C. with images that speak of unity and reconciliation,” said Cathedral Dean Sam Lloyd. “My hope is that everyone who experiences the brilliantly lit Cathedral, either online or in-person, will catch a glimpse of human oneness and harmony and be inspired to build bridges of understanding.”

Hofstetter, one of the world’s best-known light artists, transforms buildings, monuments and natural beauty spots into contemporary works of art. His recent work includes projections of polar bears on Antarctic icebergs, hieroglyphics on the ancient pyramids of Egypt, Swiss crosses on the Matterhorn and abstract colors on the Arc de Triomphe. Hofstetter plans to illuminate Mount Kilimanjaro in the near future.

The public was invited to join in the celebration in several ways. On Saturday evening, May 10, seven music ensembles performed from 7 pm to 8:50 pm, preceding the illumination, and food vendors were on the premises. Everyone was invited to picnic and bring cameras.

Hofstetter, one of the world's best-known light artists, transforms buildings, monuments and natural beauty spots into contemporary works of art. His masterpieces include projections of polar bears on icebergs and Swiss crosses on the Matterhorn and government buildings. Hofstetter loves the idea of being able to reinvent well-known monuments, buildings and landscapes in people's minds, using his huge 6,000-watt projectors and slides to transform them into temporary art sculptures.

Hofstetter's busy agenda also includes projects in Switzerland – both big and small – for companies, public authorities, foundations, museums and private individuals. He has recently lit up the night at festivals in Thun and Geneva, and created light events for the opening of the Swiss parliament session in Flims and the new Swiss embassy residence in Washington.