GAIA is the second installation in a series of extraordinary sculptures by Luke Jerram. Some of you may have been lucky enough to visit Luke's 'Museum of the Moon' here in 2023 and Gaia is equally spectacular. 

Measuring seven metres in diameter and created from 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface - the artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet, floating in three dimensions. 

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.The Earth artwork slowly revolves. 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.

The installation aims to create 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. Watch this great film about the phenomenon. 

Entry into the Abbey during the artwork installation is priced at £4 for adults and £1 for children.  There are also a host of special events taking place, from concerts to science presentations, talks and even a Gala Dinner!    Check our special events page for more information later in the year.  

For schools/group tours and any other hosted visitor enquiries please contact us on admin@hexhamabbey.org.uk 

Ticket booking will be available from May 1st