The work of an amateur artist who works at The Shard has been chosen as the centrepiece of its festive illuminations this Christmas.
Gustavo Zuluaga Villegas, 65, has worked at the London landmark for eight years. And from 25th November, the Colombian-born artist’s work will illuminate The Shard’s iconic spire with its annual festive light display – with millions across London set to see his work transformed into a dazzling spectacle.
Following The Shard’s recent discovery of Gustavo’s exceptional talent for abstract expressionist art, it was decided that this year’s Christmas light display will take inspiration from his paintings, transforming his vibrant strokes into a spectacular illumination of the city skyline. Gustavo was chosen, along with other talented individuals working at The Shard, to provide inspiration for the light display and included the building commissioning a special painting by him for the occasion.
Visible from all over London, the UK’s tallest building will begin its festive light show, inspired by the exceptional talent within The Shard, on the evening of 25th November. The display features a range of sequences from striking rainbow flashes, interpreting the bright, colourful brushwork of the original artwork, to a festive reindeer darting across the skyline, among other captivating visuals.
Gustavo’s journey as an artist began at age 18 in his home country of Colombia, where he grew up in a family of painters. His early works in pastel were shaped by the creativity that surrounded him. Life and work took him away from art for many years, but during the pandemic, watching his daughter paint in oils reignited his passion. Since then, he has dedicated his free time to creating emotive works in oil on canvas, using palette knives and brushes to capture personal experiences, nature, and memories from his childhood, especially his love of horses.
Gustavo Zuluaga Villegas says,
“I came to London from Colombia in 1996 to start a new chapter in my life. The Shard has been part of that journey for the past eight years, and it means a lot to see my artwork reflected on a building I know so well. During the pandemic, my daughter’s creativity inspired me to return to painting, something that’s always been close to my heart. To now see those paintings transformed into light for everyone to enjoy feels incredibly special.”
Michael Baker, CEO of REM, asset manager of The Shard, commented, “The Shard Lights are always a highlight of our year, but this time we wanted to do something more personal – to celebrate creativity within our own community. Gustavo has been part of The Shard team for many years, and it’s been inspiring to see his artistic talent brought to life through this year’s display, along with the other talented creative individuals who work in the building. His work is full of colour, movement and emotion, and we’re proud to see it shining across London’s skyline.”
