Gaia by Luke Jerram
Get ready to see the world at The Collection Museum. Explore our planet like never before with Gaia by Luke Jerram.
Visitors will be able to gaze upon the Earth as if from space, without ever having to leave the atmosphere. The awe-inspiring art installation, called Gaia, is by the same artist who brought the moon to The Collection in 2019, Luke Jerram.
Measuring six metres in diameter, the internally-lit sphere is 2.1 million times smaller than the real Earth. It has been recreated from 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth's surface and each centimetre of the sculpture represents 21km of our planet.
A specially made surround sound composition by BAFTA award winning Composer Dan Jones is played alongside the sculpture. In Greek Mythology 'Gaia' is the personification of the Earth.
The installation creates a sense of the Overview Effect, which was first described by author Frank White in 1987. Common features of the experience for astronauts are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.
The artwork also acts as a mirror to major events in society. In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the artwork may provide the viewer with a new perspective of our place on the planet; a sense that societies of the Earth are all interconnected and that we have a responsibility toward one another. After the lockdown, there has been a renewed respect for nature.
An exciting programme of events and talks will invite visitors to enjoy this amazing artwork in a variety of ways. From late night openings to Earth-lit yoga sessions, there promises to be something for everyone. Highlights from the Collection and Usher Gallery's geological collections will be on display in the Courtyard Gallery, with a trail for children to follow in the museum.
Gaia has been created in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres.
Luke Jerram's multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live arts projects. Living in the UK but working internationally since 1997, Jerram has created a number of extraordinary art projects which have excited and inspired people around the globe. Jerram has a set of different narratives that make up his practice which are developing in parallel with one another. He is known worldwide for his large scale public artworks.
There is no need to book for this exhibition, The Collection is asking visitors to 'Pay-What-You-Decide', to enable as many people as possible to experience this phenomenal art work. Visitors will be able to choose how much to donate to the museum for entry to the exhibition. Donations are vital for keeping The Collection open to the public and delivering fantastic exhibitions for all.
If you are interested in any of our associated events please book below.
Events
Gaia Sunday Morning Yoga Sessions
Sundays in March, April and May (excluding Sunday 10 April) 9.00am - 10.00am
Join us for a special morning session of Yoga around the Gaia installation with BWY Yoga Guide, Amanda Greenwood followed by refreshments in the Muse Coffee Bar. Tickets are priced at £10 per person and include refreshments.
'Chilled Out' Gaia Viewings
Experience Gaia by Luke Jerram in our 'Chilled Out' opening hours at 9.00am - 10.00am every Wednesday from 9 March until 25 May. These morning viewings are for anyone who would like to visit this popular exhibition but would like a more relaxed experience. Small adjustments will be made to the light and sound levels and venue staff will be on hand to help support your visit.
Gaia Late Night Opening
4.00-8.00pm, Friday 27 May
Vinyl Night. For our final late night we invite you to join us for an evening of music and dance with a vinyl DJ filling our cafe with classic tracks. Make sure you enjoy the ambience of the awe-inspiring Gaia installation before it closes on 29 May.
There promises to be something for everyone with our family friendly film screening in our auditorium complemented by craft activities in the play area.
Film screenings are free but please book your tickets in advance.