'gaia', luke jerram's seven-meter diameter earth sculpture, is traveling to australia

luke jerram’s ‘gaia’, the monumental earth sculpture measuring seven meters in diameter, is traveling to australia. the piece, which is wrapped in 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the earth’s surface, has landed in HOTA (home of the arts), where it will stay suspended from the venue’s outdoor stage until october 11, 2020. named after the greek mythological goddess who personified the earth, ‘gaia’ provides visitors with the opportunity to view our planet as if they were astronauts looking on from outer space.bluedot, 2018, photo by michael jones

‘gaia creates a sense of the overview effect, the experience 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, as felt by astronauts in outer space,’ says artist luke jerram. ‘now in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the artwork may provide the viewer with a new perspective; 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 our natural world.’

bluedot, 2018

jerram’s ‘gaia’ combines NASA imagery of the earth’s surface with specially-made surround sound composition by BAFTA award-winning composer dan jones. the monumental spherical sculpture is presented alongside an 11-day program of live events entitled ‘wonder’, organized by contemporary cultural precinct HOTA. marking the first time the artwork has been presented on australia’s east coast, the installation is open to the public for free day and night viewing until october 11.salisbury cathedral, 2019

‘luke jerram’s stunning installation captures the beauty and fragility of our planet,’ notes criena gehrke, chief executive officer of HOTA, home of the arts. ‘in a time where people are overwhelmed, this captivating artwork offers a gentle space for reflection. audiences can come and sit on the lawn, enjoying the experience in their own time with loved ones, or take advantage of the performances taking place that will respond to the wonder of gaia. we are thrilled to be able to provide the opportunity to connect with work from a celebrated international artist.’salisbury cathedral, 2019