Arborialis
Part of the Connexus Tour by Architects of Air
Photo by John Owens
24 - 27 Sept 2026. Central Park, East Ham, E6 3AB
Free. Book online or just show up.
Overview
Step into a world-famous Luminarium by Architects of Air – a fully accessible artwork inspired by nature and Islamic architecture.
About the Architects of Air Connexus Tour
This summer, the Architects of Air Connexus Tour invites thousands of people across England to experience the wonder of light and colour.
A Luminarium is a spectacular walk-through artwork by artist Alan Parkinson. They are structures filled with luminous chambers, shifting colours and ambient sound, creating an immersive experience for people of all ages and abilities. Shoes must be removed before entering.
About the artwork
Arborialis has the natural world for inspiration. Immersion in an arboreal world of tree-like forms and abundant leaf motifs. Arborialis is dedicated to the theme of ‘trees’ in terms of both forms and in graphic representation. Arborialis is designed to echo aspects of being lost in a forest – there are radiant canopies of leaves that stretch overhead, there are vibrant tree trunks rising from the ground beneath.
The Main Dome frames the leaf motif in a magnificent cupola that references the form of the Islamic mosque domes that are one of Alan Parkinson’s primary sources of inspiration. The visual world of Arborialis is enhanced by the natural and spiritual sounds of the Song of Danu created by Irish composer Dr Michael Morris.
About the project partners
Architects of Air
For over thirty years, Architects of Air has pioneered immersive public art through its monumental Luminaria - sculptures that people enter to be moved to a sense of wonder at the beauty of light and colour. Since 1992, Architects of Air have created and toured these artworks captivating over 4 million visitors in 47 countries.
Handcrafted in Nottingham from more than 3,000 individual pieces, each Luminarium is designed by founder Alan Parkinson drawing inspiration from cathedrals, Islamic architecture, and natural forms to shape dazzling maze-like spaces of winding paths and soaring domes.
Inclusive to all, the experience is intended for audience of every age and ability with a particular care to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users and the SEND community.
Other projects you might be interested in
