You know how someone can promise you the world and not deliver? That’s the complete opposite of what’s happening here. Kind of.
Luke Jerram’s giant floating model of the Earth – known as ‘Gaia’ – has returned to London, having enjoyed several popular stints in the past. Featuring a soundtrack by BAFTA award-winning composer, Dan Jones and high-res NASA imagery, it’s no wonder that crowds have been tilting towards this spectacle.
After conquering the knolls of Kensington, the waters of Canary Wharf, and the grand Painted Hall in Greenwich, where is the latest checkpoint for the planet? I hear you ask. The floating earth has returned to the south-westerly part of London, to go for a spin in Teddington.
Where can I find Gaia?
Running until July 2 at the Landmark Arts Centre, Gaia has set up shop as part of the Richmond Arts & Ideas Festival. Yes, you will have to venture beyond your Zone 4 comfort zone, but in doing so you’ll be able to see the whole world. And everyone has to journey to the outer reaches of London at some point in their lives.
Gaia measures seven metres in diameter, and you’ll find it suspended in mid-air in the Landmark Arts Centre. It’s the optimum station for a moment of tranquillity (or a snap for the ‘Gram). Visitors can gaze at the planet just as the stars and comets would, with Gaia aiming to provide a sense of renewed responsibility for taking care of the Earth.
This time around, Gaia will be on hand for late-night viewings, concerts, yoga classes, kids’ activities & school visits, specialist talks, and more.
Gaia by Luke Jerram (read more about his work here!) – who is also known for his spacey Museum Of The Moon sculpture – has been on a non-stop tour around the world. It’s travelled the world from Romania to Minnesota and currently has more dates scheduled in Ontario, Germany, and Hungary, among others. You can read all about the movements of the floating earth here.
Find Gaia, Luke Jerram’s magnificent floating Earth model, at Landmark Arts Centre (Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN) from June 16 – July 2, 2023. You can find more information about Richmond Arts & Ideas Festival here.