Gaia installation at Bristol Cathedral to feature a unique lineup of uplifting music performances

This autumn, Bristol Cathedral will not only host Luke Jerram’s celebrated installation, Gaia, but will also become a hub of creativity and exploration with a month-long lineup of engaging ticketed and free events.

From Tuesday 15 October to Saturday 9 November, visitors are invited to experience the awe-inspiring, seven-metre-diameter earth sculpture, enhanced by a diverse community engagement programme designed to deepen the connection between art, science and the environment.

Luke Jerram’s Gaia, renowned for its breathtakingly realistic depiction of our planet using high-resolution NASA imagery, will be the centrepiece of an innovative series of events aimed at immersing visitors in planet earth and inspiring visitors to take action for a fairer, greener world. The expansive programme will feature hands-on family workshops, thought-provoking panel discussions and talks, live performances and late-night music sessions, each tailored to amplify the impact of the stunning installation.

Image: Luke Jerram and Gaia, credit National Environment Research Council 

The Gaia event series will begin with a free Lunchtime music Recital on 15 October, presented by the University of Bristol Music Society This nature inspired performance will set the tone for a series of thoughtful and immersive activities set against the backdrop of Gaia. 

On 23 October, a panel discussion will delve into the crucial themes of sustainability and the evolving concept of 'home.' Featuring expert panellists, this event promises an engaging exploration of the interconnectedness of housing,migration, environment and community. 

Families are invited to a creative craft workshop on 19 October, led by We The Curious. Participants can create their own ‘hanging gardens’ and plant seeds, blending creative expression with environmental consciousness.

Throughout the four-week programme, Bristol Cathedral will also host Crafty Cathedral, craft sessions for children, including tackling your own eco-project,creating felt globes and making bird feeders!  These hands-on activities provide a creative outlet for all ages to explore their connection to the natural world and celebrate our planet.

The standout event of the series, a Blue Planet concert on 24 October, will feature the Bristol Ensemble performing the evocative soundtrack from David Attenborough’s iconic series, perfectly synchronised with Gaia’s mesmerising rotations. This unique event promises an emotional journey through sound and visual artistry, leaving attendees with a profound sense of the planet's beauty. Bristol Ensemble will return with The Fitzhardinge Society on 2 November to perform Haydn’s cherished classic ‘The Creation’ to transport people on an awe-inspiring journey of divine creation.

Image: Gaia, credit Ulrich Leitner

Adding an atmospheric twist to the programme, Bristol Cathedral introduces a new ‘Up Lates’ music series every Friday evening during Gaia Soak in the beauty of Gaia and the Cathedral after dark, where the lights go down and Gaia’s ethereal beauty comes to life. From 6pm to 9pm, visitors can enjoy live music curated by St George’s Bristol,  ranging from Jazz, Global Roots to Electronica alongside a themed pop-up bar.  

Using Gaia as a thought provoking backdrop, Sustainable Fashion Week will be hosting Fashion On Earth on Wednesday 6 November for an evening that will explore fashion created in harmony with nature. The event, which will see tickets on offer at £10 for adults and £6 for children, will allow guests to meet artists, makers and organisations working towards a better fashion future. 

“Gaia is more than just an installation; it’s an invitation to reflect on our place in the world,” said The Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol. “We are thrilled to offer these supporting events, which provide opportunities for the community to engage with Gaia and explore the themes of environmental stewardship and interconnectedness.”

Suspended within the nave of Bristol Cathedral, Gaia will offer a new perspective on earth, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the planet’s fragility and beauty. This awe-inspiring artwork, combined with the cathedral's architectural grandeur, promises a transformative experience for all who visit.

Tickets for Gaia: Our Home Planet’s series of events can be purchased online here. There is no charge to visit Bristol Cathedral and view Gaia during day time visiting hours. 

Sign up to Bristol Cathedral's Newsletter for the latest information and updates. Events can be viewed here.