Southwell Minster to host Luke Jerram’s Gaia art installation

Visitors to Southwell Minster this summer can prepare for an out-of-this-world experience with a new art installation.

Acclaimed artist Luke Jerram’s Gaia will grace the majestic Norman nave of the minster for three weeks during the school holidays, allowing people to see the earth like never before.

Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface.

The artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, floating in three-dimensions.

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 aims to act as a mirror to major events in society, providing the viewer with a new perspective of our place on the planet and a sense that societies of the Earth are all interconnected.

“Having experienced Gaia in two other cathedrals it is great to welcome it to Southwell,” said the Rev Canon Paul Rattigan, Canon Missioner at Southwell Minster.

“In his art Luke creates an opportunity to stop and ponder on the amazing nature of creation, and earth in particular.

“As Christians, this encourages us to also reflect on our creator God and our partnership with God in caring for 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.

Tickets on sale now from www.southwellminster.org/gaia

The installation will run from July 27 to August 13.

Glenn Formoy, head of marketing and events, said: “We’ve been trying for a few years to get one of Luke Jerram’s incredible installations at the minster and we are delighted to finally be able to do so.

“Having seen this up close at another cathedral, I know how much people will enjoy seeing this work of art. Tickets will sell fast so get in quick!”

It was created in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council, Bluedot and The UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres with supporting partners Culture Liverpool and Liverpool Cathedral.