Project info
'The Commissioners of Irish Lights; together with its tourism and community partners; Great Lighthouses of Ireland, collaborated with film makers and digital storytellers by setting up an open competition and selecting the most talented to turn their lenses and focus on some of the Northern Irelands landmark lighthouses. This flagship project married the need to explore and conserve the hidden maritime and industrial heritage of lighthouses with the on-going demand for engaging digital content which supports the promotion of Northern Ireland as an interesting and attractive tourism destination.
Rupert Shanks was one of the few selected based on his creative response to the heritage, stories, people and settings of our truly unique great lighthouse at St John's Point Co Down. His video short, Beneath the beam stole the show and captivated the audience with its beautiful imagery – but in particular the way the true sense of the place and its spell were communicated.
Rupert's work has provided a valuable resource as both his film and photography associated with this project is subsequently used many times to promote Great Lighthouses of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland. He is a most talented filmmaker and storyteller and a pleasure to work with.'
Ethna Murphy - Brand Manager Great Lighthouses of Ireland