PHOENIX: lightshow

Client The Projection Studio | Content Studio APVIS

The Projection Studio commissioned Studio APVIS to produce segments of the animation for PHOENIX, a breathtaking light and sound show created by Karen Monid and The Projection Studio. Commissioned by the York Minster Fund, PHOENIX marks the 40th anniversary of the 1984 fire that devastated York Minster.

On July 9, 1984, a catastrophic fire consumed the roof of the cathedral’s South Transept, sending shockwaves through York and beyond. But the story of that night is not just one of destruction—it is a testament to courage, resilience, and the determination to rebuild.

Through immersive projections and sound, PHOENIX brings this history to life, honoring the bravery and ingenuity of those who responded to the disaster. Visitors will witness lightning striking the cathedral, molten lead pouring from the roof, and the iconic Rose Window cracking—before the remarkable restoration effort unfolds, leaving York Minster standing once again as a symbol of hope.

Created by award-winning artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid, PHOENIX is a groundbreaking projection mapping and sound installation that transforms the nave of York Minster. Designed specifically for the cathedral, it highlights its unique architecture and rich history. Ashton and Monid have previously captivated audiences with Northern Lights (2019) and Platinum and Light (2022), two spectacular installations that drew tens of thousands of visitors to York Minster.

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