Illuminating Newton at Woolsthorpe Manor

The world changed here. Newton’s greatest discoveries used this building, this landscape to reveal the secrets of nature. Inspired by these extraordinary events, Jim created a 10 year masterplan for the National Trust site. He worked with artists and scientists to define the vision for this incredible place; to inspire future Newtons. He developed a demonstration programme for how the site should operate in the future. By bringing in external partners for House of Light we were able to move from presentation to participation; giving young scientists and artists the chance to experiment and share their work with visitors. A series of evening events allowed visitors to work alongside Grantham College students to paint with light and use UV inks to reveal what the naked eye cannot see and bring Newton back to his home. Community art workshops and star gazing evenings brought Newton’s scientific ideas to life for new audiences. Using modern scientific techniques we discovered new graffiti on the walls of the building showing Newton’s fascination with forces and motion. The project won the National Trust’s “Best Programming” award.