Awe-Inspiring Gaia artwork to head to Colchester Castle

PUBLISHED: 3 May 2024

Exhibition Dates: 19 July – 15 September

Colchester Castle is proud to announce that Gaia, a captivating six-meter diameter touring artwork that brings the Earth's beauty to an unprecedented scale, is coming to Colchester Castle this summer.

Developed in collaboration with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot, and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres, Gaia is a mesmerising installation that offers a unique perspective on our planet.

The stunning artwork by Luke Jerram is adorned with intricate 120dpi NASA imagery, displaying the Earth's surface in remarkable detail. Visitors to the Castle will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness our planet floating in three dimensions, providing an immersive experience that fosters a profound connection to the Earth.

Gaia's creation draws inspiration from the Overview Effect, a transformative experience described by astronauts, characterised by a deep sense of awe, an understanding of the interconnectedness of all life, and a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship.

The artwork is 2.1 million times smaller than the real Earth with each centimetre of the internally lit sculpture describing 21km of the Earth’s surface. By standing 181m away from the artwork, the public will be able to see the Earth as it appears from the moon, creating a sense of scale and perspective that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

Accompanying this remarkable visual experience is a specially crafted surround sound composition by BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones. The composition enhances the immersive quality of Gaia, providing a multisensory encounter with the artwork.

In Greek Mythology, Gaia is the personification of the Earth, and this installation pays homage to the beauty and complexity of our planet. The imagery used in the artwork has been meticulously compiled from the Visible Earth series by NASA, ensuring accuracy and authenticity in representing the Earth's diverse landscapes.

Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council said “Gaia's arrival at Colchester Castle is a testament to the power of art and science collaboration, and how knowledge and a sense of wonder can help us all to value and cherish our planet.  Gaia promises to be a thought provoking and emotional experience and underscores our commitment to bringing innovative and thought-provoking experiences to the community.”

Don't miss the chance to witness Gaia at Colchester Castle – where art, science, and the wonder of our planet converge for an unforgettable experience!

Gaia will be included in standard Castle admission and will be on display from 19 July – 15 September 2024.
Discover more Gaia | Colchester Museums (cimuseums.org.uk)
 

Page last reviewed: 3 May 2024

Subscribe

Subscribe to receive updates on Council news, events and offers, green living, leisure and sport, museums, committees, jobs and more.


Subscribe