Sea of Light brightens the Starlight Express Room at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital this month, inviting young artists who are patients at the hospital, to craft their artworks on an enchanting sea floor.

More than 45,000 participants have already experienced the installation which has toured Australia, with attendees describing Sea of Light as “magical” and “a truly beautiful sensory experience”. Through the installation, participants create illuminating art on a large glow floor using UV torches, and stencils.

Artistic Director Geoff Cobham is excited to be to sharing the installation with patients and their families: "The Women's and Children's Hospital together with the Starlight Children’s Foundation do such incredible work; in particular the Starlight Express Room is all about making healthcare experiences better for children and young people by using play and creativity. My own family spent time there when my son Huey was young, so I know how important it is to create a space that feels like a world away from the reality of hospital.”

The Sea of Light installation is tailored to fit the Starlight Express Room and children are welcomed to the space by Captain Starlight. The first visitor – ten-year-old Bailey has raved about the experience, describing it as "Awesome. Cool. The coolest thing ever!"

Geoff Cobham added, "What's wonderful about installations like Sea of Light is their adaptability to suit various spaces. Collaborating with the Starlight Children’s Foundation has allowed us to create a custom solution that perfectly aligns with their requirements."

Experience Producer at Starlight Children’s Foundation Nic Krieg said: “The Starlight Express Room exists to give children a safe, medical-free space where they can play and just be kids. We are thrilled to be working with Patch Theatre as they are true masters of creating immersive experiences that completely transform spaces. Geoff and the team have been so flexible and creative in adapting their work to fit our space to ensure Sea of Light will bring another level of magic, joy and distraction to our room for all the kids at WCH to enjoy.”

Sea of Light at the Starlight Express Room. Footage by Matt Byrne