Get a glimpse of Earth from a new perspective at HOTA’s brand new exhibit Gaia
If you ask a group of kids what they want to be when they grow up, you’re guaranteed at least one of them will say astronaut. Viewing Earth from outer space has been, until now, an experience reserved for the fortunate few who have actually followed through on their childhood dreams. If you were one of the many (many) who moved on to more realistic pursuits in adult life but still secretly harbour dreams of launching off into outer space, HOTA’s latest exhibition Gaia is right up your alley.
Life certainly has a knack for getting in the way of our space-related dreams but HOTA’s latest exhibition Gaia helps you achieve some of those ambitions via a gigantic seven-metre globe featuring exceptionally detailed images from NASA showing the Earth’s surface the way only astronauts have witnessed before – from outer space. Created by multidisciplinary UK-based artist Luke Jerram (who is also responsible for Museum of the Moon, which captivated more than three-million people around the world), this is the first time the installation will be presented on Australia’s east coast and will be accompanied by a specially made surround sound composition by BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones.
Designed to capture the beauty and fragility of planet Earth, Gaia will be suspended from HOTA’s Outdoor Stage from October 1–14. According to the artist, Gaia creates a sense of the Overview Effect – the experience of awe felt by astronauts that leads to a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of it. In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, it’s suggested the artwork may take on a new meaning for viewers but at the very least, will provide a space for gentle reflection at a time when overwhelm has become the norm. Stop by during the day to catch a glimpse of Gaia basking in the sunlight or, for a more visceral experience, visit in the early evening as the Earth glows and take a moment to truly appreciate how incredible this planet really is. A full program of events running alongside the installation will be announced soon – think classical music, contemporary dance, thoughtful talks and more. We’ll keep you posted!
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