An evening with Yann Nguema - artists and visitors delight in exclusive audience with the creator of Perfume at Preston Park

Aspiring artists and volunteers from across the Borough had the exclusive opportunity to meet internationally renowned artist Yann Nguema - the creator of Perfume, the breathtaking sound and light installation at Preston Park Museum.

The inspiring event, which took place on Wednesday (11 March), offered the chance for visitors to learn more about the French artist's innovative fusion of art, light and technology which has inspired his work over the last ten years.

Nguema has exhibited across the globe and he has just been announced as one of the artists at Vivid Sydney, but his exhibition at Preston Park is the first time his work has been shown in the UK.

The audience heard the artist share his creative process as well as asking questions to gain insight into his practice.

Perfume is the spectacular finale of the Tracks of Change exhibition programme at Preston Park Museum and is presented by S&DR200, the international festival celebrating the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

Taking place inside The Spence Building, the museum's new exhibition space, the audience were also treated to an exclusive viewing of Perfume, which surrounds visitors with gentle waves of colour and light, accompanied to the rhythm of an atmospheric soundtrack composed by Zero Gr4vity.

It explores the surprising role railways play in the natural world, from supporting seed distribution to aiding pollination as trains move through the countryside.

Yann Nguema, who is known worldwide for transforming spaces with his work, said: "I do a lot of interactive installations and like to combine references that are contradictory, such as art and mathematics, heritage and technology, but the most important part for me is that the audience sees the poetic aspect of my work.

"I am pleased to be able to give visitors an insight into my inspiration for Perfume, which invites you to step inside a world inspired by petals pollen and the unseen beauty of nature."

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Culture at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "It's clear that people have been truly inspired by the impact of S&DR200 and Yann has created something unforgettable for Preston Park Museum.

"We are honoured that he has chosen Preston Park for his first exhibition in the UK and that he is taking the time to offer budding artists and audiences an insight into his installation.

"Residents are keen to discover the international significance of our railway heritage and this evening is another example of how we are able to offer people an exciting cultural experience on their doorsteps without having to travel far and wide."

Niccy Hallifax, S&DR200 Festival Director, said: "Yann's work utilises projection, light, sound and geometry to create mesmerising experiences for viewers. His work is captivating and leaves the audience spellbound by its beauty.

"S&DR200 is about bringing the heritage and stories to life in a unique and special way and just like the installations before, this one is special. It showcases science behind pollination in the most evocative way, and as importantly, is starkly in contrast to the other works we have installed in this newly created space."

Visitors can experience Perfume at Preston Park Museum until Sunday 10 May.

Entry is included in the price of a museum day or annual pass.

Buy your Museum Pass online before your visit from Preston Park Museum and Grounds website.