Gaia at Moors Valley
This is a past event
In Greek Mythology Gaia is the personification of the Earth. Enjoy contemplating this spectacular artwork in the tranquil woodland of Moors Valley.
Measuring seven metres in diameter, Luke Jerram’s Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface*. This huge artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet like never before, floating in three-dimensions.
The artwork also acts as a mirror to major events in society. In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, you may gain a new perspective of your place on the planet; a sense that we are all connected and have a responsibility toward one another. After the lockdown, there has been a renewed respect for nature.
The installation creates a sense of the Overview Effect, which was first described by author Frank White in 1987. Experienced by astronauts, they describe this as feeling in awe of the planet, gaining a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.
A specially made surround sound composition by BAFTA award winning Composer Dan Jones is played alongside the sculpture.
Gaia has been created in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres.
*The imagery for the artwork has been compiled from Visible Earth series, NASA.
Between 9am and 10am each day, there will be a Relaxed Hour, designed with accommodations for people who would benefit from a more relaxed experience. If you are unable to attend, Gaia will be livestreamed via the festival Facebook page between 6.30pm and 9.30pm.
An accessible description of Gaia can be downloaded at this link
About the artist
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.
Gaia is supported by Arts Council England, DCMS, Dorset Council, Forestry England, Cultural Hub & Wave
Click here for a forest-themed Activity Pack to enjoy
Access
Gaia is located within the Tree Top Trail, a 5m high wooden walkway located 1.5km from the Moors Valley car park. A wheelchair accessible route under Gaia will be sign-posted and event stewards will be on site to help.
Tramper mobility scooters are available from the Visitor Centre.
Between 9:00AM and 10:00AM each day, there will be a Relaxed Hour, designed with accommodations for people who would benefit from a more relaxed viewing experience.
Gaia digital streaming
So that as many people as possible can enjoy the awe inspiring spectacle of Gaia, the installation at Moors Valley will be streamed as live via the Inside Out Dorset festival Facebook page between 6:30 – 9:30pm, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 September.
Plan Your Visit
With the current climate crisis, we try to work in a greener way and understand that we all need to be part of the solution in protecting our planet. We encourage you to consider how you get to the festival and adapt to ‘greener’ ways if possible. Follow this link to plan your visit to Inside Out Dorset.