The Changning sub-venue of the 3rd Shanghai International Light Festival opened in Hongqiao area on Thursday, presenting a visual gala and adding vibrancy to Shanghai's night economy.

Running through October 8, the event spans the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday period and integrates light art, sci-tech displays, and cultural tourism consumption.

Three flagship projects were highlights of the sub-venue. Artist Liu Yi's light sculpture "Cloud Wandering" was revealed, interpreting urban poetry through innovative light effect. The Asian debut of ACM SIGGRAPH DAC urban public digital art show also premiered, focusing on AI media innovation and digital cultural heritage.

The ACM SIGGRAPH DAC showcase features a thematic unit and the global call for digital artworks was launched in July. It drew 159 submissions from 17 countries and regions. After rounds of international judging, more than 70 works by over 60 artists were selected.

The pieces fall into several categories including urban public memory, digital reinterpretation of cultural heritage, artificial intelligence and data art, ecology and nature, and human perception in the digital age. The artworks will loop on nine public screens across Changning, including Longemont Shopping Mall and The Place. Outdoor screens turn the city into an open-air digital canvas, bringing cutting-edge international digital art out of galleries and into public spaces.

The core immersive show at Crystal Bridge leverages building facades, sky corridors, sunken plazas, ceiling lights and laser projections to create a multi-dimensional visual experience full of futuristic tech aesthetics.

Pop-ups including a sandwich festival and a time-honored brand bazaar opened alongside the event, inviting visitors to sample local food while viewing the light installations.

The bazaar gathers iconic Shanghai old brands, integrating intangible heritage displays, artistic creations, traditional delicacies and cultural and creative products. It showcases authentic local urban charm defined by classic traditions and local lifestyles.