After the darkness comes the light

18 Nov 2021

The short film ‘After the Darkness’ is the culmination of a North West Carnival Initiative programme that engaged several groups from across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area in the production of light-based installations.  Groups taking part included Destined, St Columb’s Park House Youth, Out North West, the Focus Project and the Pink Ladies.

The ongoing Coronavirus has cast its long shadow across the community leading to increased levels of anxiety and a growing sense of isolation, this project sought to tackle this growing problem using the arts as a creative tool to support participants’ general well being and mental health as we gradually emerge from the pandemic.

The film documents the participants’ journey from creating beacons of light and the showcase of their artistic endeavours during this year’s Halloween Festival to huge acclaim. The project wouldn’t have been possible without the support from the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.

Aoibheann (project participant): “I didn’t think that I was in any way artistic, I now know that I am, I can try anything. Life is good at the minute.”  After the darkness comes the light.

“Another fantastic project which has been supported through the Community Arts, Culture & Heritage Fund established with the Department of Health. In a time where hope is needed this project rejuvenated community spirit involving all ages and a diversity of participants within the community. After the Darkness comes the Light was a huge success helping to inspire and encourage the community to look more positively to the future and help heal and renew itself.” Orla Black, Grants Director