This year, the Lumignons du Cœur installation takes the form of a monumental solar system, consisting of huge inflatable structures - some as large as 10 m in diameter - representing the sun, moon and planets. As visitors wander through this heavenly skyscape, they can enjoy a space-age sound track interspersed with light effects.
These stars are not just there to look pretty: they are the backbone of a collaborative creation where visitors contribute to shaping the artwork. Every night, more than 5,000 candles are lit, forming groups of stars surrounding the planets, like a spiral gravitating around the stars.
With its head in the stars, but feet firmly on the ground, this installation supports a really good cause: Vivre aux Éclats, a non-profit which has been organising visits from professional clowns to hospitals and care homes for the disabled and elderly in Lyon and the surrounding area for thirty years now. Each candle purchased is an act of generosity. 15 candles pay for a visit from a pair of clowns. A way to bring light into the lives of the most vulnerable members of the community.