2025
A dizzying profusion of colors, hypnotic shapes, and a bold message in capital letters that both captivates and intrigues: the psychedelic artwork by London-based artist Lakwena immediately grabs attention.
By using text as the central element of her visual, Lakwena has created the first typographic poster in the history of the Festival. The artwork revolves around five words – ALL YOU SEE IS GLORY – a short and powerful message that invites various interpretations.
This phrase is taken from the lyrics of the song “Stars,” written by Janis Ian in 1974 and performed by Nina Simone at Montreux in 1976. During her research on the Festival, Lakwena was immediately captivated by Nina Simone’s performance, which she describes as “so intimate, raw, and authentic.” This emotionally charged performance – during which Simone famously ordered a woman to sit down – is one of the most iconic moments of the artist’s career.
“The glory reflects the legacy of the Festival, its legendary concerts, the beauty of its lake and mountains. But I think this sentence can be interpreted in many ways. It is also kind of bittersweet, because the song ‘Stars’ is very much about the fleeting nature of fame.” – Lakwena
