Do you want to see Earth from space? You don’t need to become an astronaut to experience it – just visit the 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice, where we will present a one-of-a-kind mobile installation, Gaia!
The project by Luke Jerram features a stunning 7-meter-diameter sphere, suspended above the multifunctional hall at the International Congress Centre. The imagery for the artwork has been compiled from high-resolution database, the Visible Earth series, NASA.
The installation offers a unique opportunity to admire our planet on an extraordinary, three-dimensional scale. Gaia creates an impression of the overview effect, a phenomenon first described by Frank White in 1987, often referred to as 'space euphoria'. Visitors can feel like astronauts marvelling at Earth from an extraordinary vantage point. The project also aims to inspire reflection on the interconnectedness of all life and rekindle our sense of responsibility for the environment.
The artwork is 1.8 million times smaller than the real Earth with each centimetre of the internally lit sculpture describing 18km of the Earth’s surface. By standing 211m away from the artwork, the public will be able to see the Earth as it appears from the Moon.
According to the artist, Luke Jerram, Gaia was created to highlight the fragility of our planet, raising awareness about climate change and mass extinction while encouraging action toward necessary changes. He strives to present his works in public spaces to reach the broadest and most diverse audience possible. Using NASA imagery, he aims to offer viewers the most intimate, personal, and direct encounter with our planet in all its grandeur.
Gaia is a sister project to Jerram’s Museum of the Moon, which has been seen by over 9 million people in more than 25 countries.
This installation merges space architecture, Earth sculpture, and spatial sound composition, fostering collaboration and creative engagement. At the 8th Silesian Science Festival, you’ll also hear a specially created composition by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones, designed to immerse you in an extraordinary atmosphere and inspire your interpretation of the piece.
Gaia was created in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot, and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres.
Luke Jerram is known for his sculptures, installations, and live art projects. Based in the UK, he has worked internationally since 1997, creating extraordinary large-scale artworks that captivate and inspire audiences worldwide. His diverse body of work continues to grow, enriching his artistic journey with new narratives.
For more information about Gaia, visit the website.
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The 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice will take place from 7 to 9 December and will mark the culmination of a year celebrating Katowice as the European City of Science 2024.