Hold Up!
City of Bellingham @ The Historic National Bank
Experience Research Lab (ERL) launched an immersive art activation in the historic Bellingham National Bank building. This two-month event transformed the vacant space into a vibrant, art-forward venue, featuring a wide range of experiences, including culinary evenings, Hi-Fi listening sessions, DJ sets, parties, a WWU fine art installation, and more.
The installation featured layers of DMX-controlled 360-degree tube lights, enabling the space to shift and evolve dynamically. Custom lighting design added depth and energy, bringing the installation to life and elevating the experience.
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At the heart of HOLD UP is a site-specific installation designed to foster community connection during the darkest months of the year. The installation uses shimmering golden survival blankets to transform the bank’s historic walls, enveloping visitors in warm, reflective light.
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These survival blankets, typically associated with emergencies, symbolize both fragility and resilience, creating a space of communal warmth and reflection.
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2-months and over 7 events took place within the walls of the old bank. DJ sets, record releases, culinary evenings, University Student Exhibitions, and more.
Partners & Contributors
Gehiem Gallery, Daylight Properties, Maiden Voyage, Black Noise Records, Old World Deli, WWU Fine Arts, and more.Lighting Design Ross Monroe
Behind The Install
After building the installation our team produced and hosted 2-months of cultural art events.
Interactive renders of the design allow our team to visualize and execute the installation
“Real riches aren't gold or cash—they're the community and people who stand with you.”
Our goal was to create a space of warmth and community as our PNW seasons changed into the darkest, coldest days of the year.
Our concept was to invigorate a vacant space in downtown Bellingham into an arts and cultural hub, by creating an installation that acted as the foundation for local events and parties.
This collaboration brought together over 10 local businesses and organizations, resulting in a dynamic series of cultural events that energized downtown Bellingham’s economy and creative scene during its quietest months.
Branding, production, and promotion were all done in-house.
