IT has been centuries since Vikings last sailed up the Ouse and into the settlement they called Jorvik.

But last night, their image appeared again as Viking ships cast their reflections across York.

Technology is being used by local artist Nigel Sandor to project his commissioned artwork across the river.

He has taken inspiration from Viking sagas, songs and artwork and from their seafaring tradition to create an animated artwork.

Four projectors are being used to beam the artwork from the Moathouse hotel 50 metres across the river on to the rear of the Woolworths building and, simultaneously, from the Norwich Union building 80 metres on to the Guildhall. The display will continue from dusk every night throughout the second week of the Jorvik Viking Festival, until February 20.

The artwork was commissioned by the York Renaissance Project to support the festival, which is organised by York Archaeological Trust.

Renaissance is a new initiative that aims to refresh, re-interpret and breathe new life into the city, while inspiring and showcasing local creative talent.

Tomorrow, there will be Viking ships in action on the river between 11am and 2pm, and a spectacular battle re-enactment on the Eye of York at 7pm.

Published: 11/02/2005