If you fancy sipping on maritime-themed cocktails while witnessing some of the world’s most cutting-edge audio-visual art exhibitions, then Medway’s Tone Festival is the place to be this weekend.

Artists from across the globe are travelling to spots along the River Medway to show off their exhibitions, including solar-powered light sculptures and wind-sensitive sound installations.

This innovative programme has been set up to mark the centenary of the First World War through a selection of military and maritime inspired works. Much of the festival takes place at Chatham’s Historic Dockyard, and according to artistic director Claudia Molitor, the presence of monumental ships and historic architecture add to the audience’s perception of the art.

She said: “This will be a great event that everyone can enjoy. Many of the events are free and there are going to be so many exquisite moments of surprise and delight.”

One of the unusual projects on offer includes a piece of ‘radio art’ involving the live recording and combining of iconic sounds of the local area.

On Saturday evening, June 21, a variety of maritime-themed food and drink will be on offer as part of the exhibition, with free canapés and a complimentary cocktail for ticket holders.

The Tone Festival kicks off on Friday, June 20, with a free performance of the light sculpture Magnetic Eclipse and runs until Sunday, June 22.

Exhibitions can be found at locations along the River Medway including the Historic Dockyard, Fort Amherst and Sun Pier House.

Don’t miss

Friday’s highlights include the unveiling of James Geurts’ Magnetic Eclipse – a large, suspended solar-powered light and sound sculpture inspired by the importance of maritime navigation devices in shaping our landscape. It’s set to light up at precisely 9.21pm at Sun Pier House, Chatham.

Saturday includes treats such as a dynamic DJ set of world music by BBC Radio 3 presenter Max Reinhardt – a regular in some of London’s most legendary clubs. The set will run from 11pm until late at the Dockyard. Tickets £18.

On Sunday, sound artist Tomoko Sauvage will be playing “instruments” such as water, porcelain bowls and crystal ice as part of her submarine-inspired work Ringing Dew Drops, Beneath The Waves. Catch her at 11.30am at the gallery Pop in Chatham High Street.

For more details visit www.tonefestival.com