About
Debuting its North American premiere and created by internationally renowned UK artist Luke Jerram, First Breath is a large-scale public artwork inspired by the birth of Jerram’s daughter. It transforms the Toronto skyline by sending powerful beams of light into the sky — a luminous reminder of all the new lives beginning around us and the collective community of new parents experiencing one of life’s most precious moments.
Designed with LED lights, First Breath pulses softly, echoing the rhythm of breath and revealing an invisible network of joy unfolding across the city. Whether you’re viewing it from across Toronto or standing beneath its glow, this installation invites you to pause, look up and remember that even in our busiest moments, new stories are beginning.
Credits
First Breath
By Luke Jerram
A light installation
Presented by Luminato Festival
Originally commissioned and produced by Factory International, Manchester
About Luminato at Harbourfront
Luminato takes over Harbourfront Centre for a weekend of provocative art installations, a new take on Shakespeare, global food vendors and live music celebrations.
Explore Terceradix Luminarium, an immersive world of light and First Breath, a glowing tribute to new life. Groove to the chart-topping sounds of the legendary Quincy Jones with Grammy Award-winning artist Larnell Lewis and experience South Asian rhythms from the Tawoos Initiative, Latin beats from Lula Music & Arts Centre and music from Indigenous artists presented by Miigwetch Collective. For two nights only, don’t miss the reimagined and revolutionary take on Shakespeare’s most famous play, Hamlet, from acclaimed Peruvian director Chela De Ferrari.
From local artisans showcasing their crafts to food vendors serving global flavours, dancing under the stars or losing yourself in immersive art installations, Luminato at Harbourfront captures the magical spirit of summer in the city.
Learn more about Luminato Festival
Dates & Times
Tickets
No tickets required
Venue
Ontario Square
Open courtyard surrounded by ample seating and scenic birch trees.
Wheelchair accessible.
235 Queens Quay West
Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
Presented by
