Illuminated Bal Maiden Installation
City of Lights CIC, the creative force behind Truro's beloved lantern parade for over 20 years, unveils their most ambitious creation yet - a magnificent four metre tall traditional Bal Maiden illuminated sculpture, honouring the spirit and heritage of St Dennis and Cornwall's clay country. The illuminated sculpture will be visiting Truro Cathedral in October half term.
This isn't just a lantern — she is a vessel for stories. Crossing land and sea, the Bal Maiden traveled from Cornwall to Lorient, Brittany, taking her place alongside the Kekezza dancers on the festival stage. Accompanying her: writer-in-residence Amanda Harris, gathered and shared tales from Cornwall's dispersed communities — voices exploring what it truly means to be Cornish.
Created by artists Anthony Crosby, Sue Loydell and Sam Horne-Norris Bradbury, with photography by Josh Simmonds, this installation is proudly supported by the Cornish Delegation for the Lorient Interceltic Festival 2026, Cornish Lithium and FEAST.
This incredible installation will be available to view during the cathedral's general visiting times from Monday 26 - Thursday 29 October.