You can see See the world at Tewkesbury Abbey this February. The special exhibition ‘Gaia’ by Bristol-based artist Luke Jerram is on display front and center in this historic building’s world.
Measuring 7 meters in diameter, this artwork features detailed images of the Earth’s surface by NASA, offering an opportunity to see our planet floating in three dimensions at this scale. The installation aims to create a sense of the overview effect first described by author Frank White in 1987.
Common to the astronauts’ experiences is a sense of awe for Earth, a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all life, and a new sense of responsibility to care for the environment.
Commenting on the installation, Canon Nick Davies, Bishop of Tewkesbury Abbey, said: We live on a fragile planet facing a climate emergency.
“We hope that this event will give tens of thousands of people the opportunity to marvel at the beauty of our planet. This globe floating in the monastery will offer a new perspective on our planet, and will help us recognize it as a sacred place. It might help you see.”
This special exhibit is the highlight of the inaugural Two Rivers Converge Festival. His month-long celebration of Tewkesbury’s unique heritage, environment and creativity.
Jessica Brewster, artistic director of The Roses Theatre, said: “Tewkesbury is one of the most exciting areas in the UK, with one of the fastest growing populations and one of the country’s largest urban development projects. It is a national hub for technology and engineering innovation, and has world-class heritage and natural beauty.
“It is a symbol of climate change in the UK, famous for its effects on floods and extreme weather events, and an experiment in how humans can creatively respond to large-scale global change.”
Two Rivers Converge is an artistic and cultural response to this situation, using Tewkesbury’s heritage as an artistic canvas to inspire change and celebrate the resilience and creativity of the local community.
Alongside this traveling show, you will be able to watch specially selected talks at cultural heritage sites. The Climate Chaos Comedy Night at The Roses features nationally touring comedians tackling this complex topic. A new Family Heritage Trail during half term will explore Tewkesbury’s unique high street and atmospheric choral recitals alongside ‘GAIA’ at Tewkesbury Abbey.
Luke Jerram’s GAIA will be on display at Tewkesbury Abbey from 2nd to 20th February. Visit The Roses website for exact times and tickets.
All images: Jack Bosquet