Fifteen years ago, the Luminato Festival was created in response to the SARS pandemic. On June 9, as the 11-day offering of arts and ideas makes its post-COVID in-person return, the social consciousness behind its existence, and mission, is taking centre stage in numerous ways. From bringing people together and provoking crucial dialogue to a naturally-emerging theme of climate change, Luminato’s artistic director, Naomi Campbell, puts it all into perspective.
While she may share her name with another Naomi known for stomping fashion runways, Luminato’s Naomi is responsible for shaping and bringing meaning to the festival. And yet, beyond the inner workings of this global creative effort, Naomi emphasizes meeting people where they are to ensure the energy of each Luminato production reverberates throughout Toronto’s communities within communities.