Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on May 1st, 2026
•Sunny Bank Mills is set to welcome a vibrant new outdoor artwork called Komorebi, created by artist Amelia Bowles. This exciting installation, curated by Senem Cagla Bilgin-Keys, will be on display from 9 May 2026 until May 2028, transforming the sculpture garden into a lively experience filled with light, colour, and movement.
What Is Komorebi?
The term Komorebi originates from Japan and describes the beautiful effect of sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees. Amelia Bowles has taken this natural phenomenon and turned it into a striking sculpture. The artwork consists of lightweight, paper-like structures that interact with sunlight, creating a dazzling display as the sun moves across the sky.
A Unique Experience
Visitors to the installation can expect an immersive experience. As they walk through and around Komorebi, they will notice how the light passes through the structures, casting shifting shadows and vibrant colours that change with the time of day. This means that at different moments, the artwork can appear solid and bold, or it can dissolve into delicate lines and hues.
Morning and Evening: Cooler tones create a calm atmosphere.
Midday: The colours become warmer and more vibrant.
Each moment spent in the presence of this artwork offers a fresh perspective on both the installation and the historic site of Sunny Bank Mills. Visitors are encouraged to slow down and appreciate how light, time, and their surroundings interact.
Artist's Vision
Amelia Bowles shared her thoughts on the project, stating, “My work weaves patterns of shifting luminosity, shaped by weather, movement, and perspective, to evoke a bodily sense of time and place. I was touched by the history and industrial past of the Mills, and when placed in dialogue with the Colonnade, Komorebi takes on an almost archaeological depth where light and shadow mirror rhythms of industry and collectivity.” She expressed excitement about showcasing her work at Sunny Bank Mills, highlighting the venue's role in fostering community engagement with the arts.
Connecting Past and Present
According to Anna Turzynski, the Arts Director at Sunny Bank Mills, Komorebi “is a beautiful and immersive work that transforms the way we experience the Mills’ site.” The installation connects the industrial heritage of the area with the universal themes of light, time, and perception. Turzynski believes that Bowles has created something that is both delicate and powerful, encouraging visitors to take a moment to look closely and experience the Mills in a new light.
A Living Landscape
By blending elements of the past with the present, Komorebi presents Sunny Bank Mills not just as a historic location, but as a dynamic, living landscape that is continually shaped by light, space, and human experience. This installation invites people to reflect on their surroundings and the passage of time, making it a unique addition to the vibrant community hub.
Launch Event Details
The public launch of Komorebi will take place on Saturday, 9 May 2026, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at the Weavers’ Colonnade at Sunny Bank Mills. This event is free to attend, and visitors are encouraged to book their places in advance through Eventbrite.
Sunny Bank Mills is recognised as one of the most exciting cultural and community hubs in the Yorkshire region. It houses a contemporary art gallery, a large community of artists, a textile museum and archive, and various other creative independent businesses. Located in the heart of the thriving village of Farsley in West Leeds, it serves as a fantastic venue for art and culture.
Further Information
For those interested in learning more about Komorebi or planning a visit, additional details can be found on the Sunny Bank Mills website. This artwork is free to visit and will remain on display until May 2028. The installation not only enhances the outdoor space but also provides a new way for visitors to engage with the rich history of the mills while enjoying the beauty of art and nature.
Yorkshire Team
The Yorkshire.com editorial team is made up of local writers, content creators, and tourism specialists who are passionate about showcasing the very best of God’s Own Country. With deep roots in Yorkshire’s communities, culture, food scene, landscapes, and visitor economy, the team works closely with local businesses, venues, and organisations to bring readers the latest news, events, travel inspiration, and insider guides from across the region. From hidden gems to headline festivals, Yorkshire.com is dedicated to celebrating everything that makes Yorkshire such a special place to live, work, and visit.
View all articles →