SOMA Night Lights

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Save the Date!

The Diamond City Partnership and the Sordoni Art Gallery at Wilkes University are proud to announce the return of SOMA Night Lights on February 18 and 19, 2027, on the 100 block of South Main Street in Downtown Wilkes-Barre. This event is free and open to the public.

Join us for a mesmerizing celebration of art and technology!

Experience video-mapped projections transforming the buildings of the SOMA Arts District (South Main Street), featuring original works by artist Jeff Dobrow and a special community-created projection.

Be part of this free, family-friendly event that brings together creativity, community, and culture in the heart of Wilkes-Barre’s SOMA Arts District. Enjoy immersive light displays, live art demonstrations, a local vendor market, music and more!

What is SOMA Night Lights?

SOMA Night Lights, named for Downtown Wilkes-Barre’s newly branded South Main (SOMA) Arts District, will be a celebration of community and the arts. Working with artist Jeff Dubrow, SOMA Night Lights will feature several video-mapped projections on buildings throughout the district, including one compiled of community submissions.

This process is defined as a method that utilizes three-dimensional forms as a unique projection surface -- meaning the surface to be projected on does not have to be a flat screen and instead, through a 3D model, can align video artwork to dimensional forms.

About the Artist

Jeff Dobrow, also known as Doc Jim, is a visual and technology artist based in Virginia. His work spans projection mapping, interactive installations, and live performance art.

With a background in global advertising and motion design, Dobrow has created immersive experiences worldwide. Notable projects include contributions for the University of Virginia and events like Let’s Glow SF in San Francisco.

Submit your art!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do at this event?

This night is packed with things to do and see, including:

Light projects
Live artist demonstrations
Free crafts and activities for children Kids Courtyard

Check the map below for more information.

View SOMA Night Lights Map (.pdf)

Where can I park?

There are several parking lots and parking garages available in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

Wilkes University Parkade - 148 S. Main St.
Midtown Parking Lot - 25 E Northampton St
Boscov’s Parking Garage - 36 S Franklin St
Park & Lock Central - 52 S Main St
Park & Lock Lot #6 - 25 W Northampton St

What should I bring?

Dress for the weather! This is a night event.
Bring your phone or camera to take photos (and use #SOMANightLights when posting on social media!)
Bring a blanket or foldable chair to have a seat while watching the demonstrations or projections.

Are there restrooms?

Yes! Portable restrooms are available and located at 116 S Main St. Courtyard.

Who We Are

Sordoni Art Gallery encourages an appreciation of the arts and an understanding of its role in society through direct engagement with art. As a recognized center for innovative learning, the gallery aims to enrich the academic and cultural community of Wilkes University and the surrounding region by creating dynamic environments for the study and appreciation of visual art.

To fulfill this vision, the Sordoni Art Gallery prioritizes education and exhibition as part of its public service mission. It offers a year-round schedule featuring regional, national, and international artists while ensuring accessibility to diverse audiences. Located on the Wilkes University campus, the gallery fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and supports academic programming through its flexible exhibition space.

With the ability to host both traditional and experimental installations, the gallery is uniquely positioned to explore challenging subjects and current events that may not be addressed in commercial venues.

The Diamond City Partnership external website (DCP) is Wilkes-Barre’s non profit downtown management organization, serving as the caretaker of our community’s vision for Downtown Wilkes-Barre. DCP was founded in 2001, when almost 1,000 citizens met in a series of public visioning sessions to craft strategies for a better Downtown.

Today, DCP's work continues to improve the economic vitality and livability of Downtown Wilkes-Barre. To that end, DCP administers the Downtown Wilkes-Barre Business Improvement District (DWBBID) and Downtown Wilkes-Barre's Keystone Communities Main Street program, which together provide a range of place management services to the properties and businesses of Downtown Wilkes-Barre.