On the back of successful events in Sydney, Berlin and Lyon, London is to welcome a new international light festival at the start of next year.

From 14-17 January, Lumiere London will showcase renowned artists from across the world, with the event expected to draw thousands of visitors to the UK capital.

Taking place across 20 iconic locations in London’s West End and King’s Cross areas, Lumiere London will be the first major light festival to be held in the city. It has been backed by London mayor Boris Johnson and has received founding support from Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Heart of London Business Alliance

The event is looking to emulate predecessors such as Vivid Sydney, the Festival of Lights in Berlin and Lyon’s Fete de Lumieres. Large-scale arts event organiser Artichoke is producing the concept, commissioning pioneering artists from around the world to create works for the four-day spectacle.

“This ground-breaking new festival will reinforce London’s global reputation as a leader in culture and the arts and is expected to bring visitors to the capital from the UK and around the world at a traditionally quieter time of year,” said a statement from London tourism body London and Partners.

“Sites for the installations will include some of the city’s most iconic buildings and locations. With this project, an element of surprise will be integral to the experience and the exact spaces will remain under wraps until closer to the time.”

Of the artists creating pieces for the event, four have been revealed. These include British artist Julian Opie, US artist Janet Echelman, Paris-based Irish artists Anne Cleary and Dennis Connolly and Belgian art-studio LAb[au].

“Lumiere London will be a dazzling new festival for the capital, designed to expel the post-Christmas blues and bring a much-needed fillip for businesses and the public during a dark and dreary January,” said Boris Johnson. “It’s another example of our city’s creativity and its unrivalled cultural riches, which draw visitors from around the world and bring billions to our economy.”

Shirane + Miyazaki's 3D kaleidoscope installation stars at Vivid Sydney light festival