What Is Reignite VII? Unveiling York’s Creative Renaissance in 2025

Have you ever stopped to think about how art and technology shape our world? In February, the city of York, known for its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit, will host Reignite VII: The Intersection of Art & Technology. Join us for an evening of exploration, collaboration, and a glimpse into the future of creativity.

Let us dive in to what the event has to offer, why York is the perfect place to host it, and how you can get involved.

An evening that harmonizes the past, present and future

Reignite VII will take place on Thursday, 13th February, from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Hosted at the Yorkshire Museum, the event will bring together a range of innovators, including York Minster, Viridian Labs and Peel X.

Here’s what you can expect from the evening:

• Opening Presentations: A selection of York’s creative and heritage leaders will share their insights on how digital innovation is changing the way we approach art and cultural heritage.
• York BID’s Colour & Light Projection: Witness a stunning display of colour and light projected across the city – a mesmerising combination of art and technology.
• Access to York Minster’s Centre for Excellence: Get an exclusive look at innovative projects that are changing the way we approach historical preservation.
• Networking and Music: Finish the night with conversation and music from a DJ, all in the unique setting of York Minster.

Meet the pioneers at the intersection of art and technology

Viridian Labs: Where the physical and digital meet

Award-winning augmented reality specialists Viridian Labs will be joining us to showcase their work. Their projects create immersive, interactive environments that blur the boundaries between reality and possibility, and are as thought-provoking as they are visually stunning.

Peel X: Where performance and interaction collide

Peel X is pushing the boundaries of what it means to be present in the moment. Using wearable technology and dynamic installations, their projects are changing the way we experience performance, making every interaction more connected and engaging.

York Minster’s Centre for Excellence: Revolutionising heritage preservation

Using the latest digital tools, the Centre for Excellence is showing how technology can help us better connect with our heritage. Their projects are changing the way we approach the stories of the past, and how we can share them with a new generation of digitally-native audiences.

Why York? A UNESCO City of media arts

York’s status as a UNESCO City of Media Arts is more than just a badge of honour – it’s a promise to support creativity and innovation. Few cities balance heritage and modernity as well as York, and events like Reignite are a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting artists, technologists and entrepreneurs.

As Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica, puts it:

“York is well-placed for further sector development. Working with partners such as York Minster, York BID, CYC and York Museums Trust, we are positioning Reignite as a key driver for the creative industries.”

Who should attend Reignite VII?

This is not an event for techies and artists alone. Whether you work in retail, hospitality, transport, heritage or media, there is something for everyone. Reignite is about collaboration – how different industries can learn from one another and grow through creative technology.

Rachel Bean, Project Manager at York BID, says:

“Reignite shows how innovative technology can drive economic growth and enhance our city’s cultural offer. It’s the perfect platform for the 2025 series.”

How to join the celebration

Circle Thursday, 13th February in your diary and book your place via Eventbrite. With limited places available for this special event, early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.

Powered by collaboration and creativity

Reignite VII is presented by Aesthetica and York BID, with support from York Museums Trust, York Minster and the City of York Council. The event is also supported by the UK Government, highlighting its importance to the region’s cultural and economic development.

This is more than an event; it is a joyous celebration of innovation and a glimpse into the future of the creative industries. Whether you are interested in the ways that art and technology are changing our world – or simply looking for inspiration – Reignite VII is the place you cannot afford to miss.