'I visited Trafalgar Square's St Martin-in-the-Fields light exhibition and felt like a walking piece of art'

Trafalgar Square church St Martin-in-the-Fields has been lit up thanks to its Life exhibition celebrating the natural world.
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Just a walk away from Charing Cross and on the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square, London visitors won't be able to miss the Life exhibition at St Martin-in-the-Fields.

If its central location wasn't enough, the display's bright illuminations, which start in its outside courtyard, instantly draw you in and act like a guiding star on a dark winter's night for those not too familiar with the area.

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Following the bright welcome outside, the display created by projection art company Luxmuralis continues deep into the Trafalgar Square church's crypt. 

The space, which usually serves the local area as a cafe, has been transformed for the exhibition into an empty shell, with the projected display highlighting the underground spot's brick-vaulted ceilings and historic tombstones lining the floor. Instead of dining tables and seating, the light display fills every available space. 

As the show is centred around the happenings around the planet in a 24-hour period, the first crypt room starts with a projection of an old-style map of the world. Its blue hue and the accompanying uplifting sound offer a tranquil beginning to the display, opening your eyes to the wonders of the world. 

Continuing into a larger crypt space, visitors are able to immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of colourful nature-themed projections. Not only does the vibrant display showcase the architecture church's historic vault by making it a canvas for floral-themed art, those walking around the display also become a part of the visual creation as they wear the projections.

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The light journey culminates in the grand church upstairs, where visitors are invited to take a pew to watch a majestic display projected across its Baroque gold accented ceiling. While the combination of visual artistry with the sacred setting of a church felt a bit odd at first, you soon lose yourself in the 15-minute sequence as the display explores the depths of the sea and the stars in the sky.

Set across three different spaces, visitors heading to the exhibition may want to make sure they take their time throughout so they don't finish too quickly. However, it's easy to do this by watching the projections change and seeing how they shine on you and those around you. Of course, it's good for pictures too!

The experience is set to continue to light up the Trafalgar Square scene over the next four evenings before finally switching off on February 3.

How to get tickets for Trafalgar Square's St Martin-in-the-Fields Life exhibition

Ticket prices start from £8, but they may vary based on particular timings. Premium slots are available at £12. 

Those wanting to book a visit to Life at St Martin-in-the-Fields can get tickets on the venue's website.