A world first for Dublin Step into the breathtaking world of Gaia: Luke Jerram’s awe inspiring installation, now gracing Trinity’s iconic Long Room T rinity proudly announces the launch of Gaia, an awe inspiring limited-run exhibition featuring the touring artwork by renowned artist Luke Jerram. The piece is a luminous sculpture with a remarkable six- Jerram’s creative portfolio encompasses works of various scales, all meticulously crafted to convey powerful messages and galvanise communities to confront complex and thought-provoking concepts. In metre diameter, and will grace the hallowed halls of the recent years, the artist has harnessed his exceptional Old Library, captivating audiences from November 2023. visual communication skills in a compelling manner through artworks such as ‘Gaia’, ‘Oil Fountain’, and Nestled within the iconic Long Room of Trinity, ‘This Way Forward’, each of which Gaia is an extraordinary creation that serves as a poignant call to action, boasts a stunning 120dpi display drawing attention to the pressing issue of NASA’s detailed Earth imagery, portraying our planet in three- I designed Gaia to of planetary health. dimensional splendour as seen from prompt the difficult Jerram explains: ‘I designed Gaia to space. prompt the difficult discussions we all discussions we all need to have about the environment In Greek mythology, ‘Gaia’ personifies need to have about and what we, as individuals and wider Earth. Jerram’s profound artistic society, can do to make our lifestyles vision aims to provoke contemplation the environment more sustainable. And so, it is very on the state of planetary wellbeing, fitting that Gaia will be displayed in urging visitors to introspect on their individual and Trinity while the Old Library undergoes this landmark collective responsibilities for protecting our world. conservation project.’ Jerramʼs purpose for Gaia, to highlight the beauty and fragility of the Earth, chimes with that of the Old Library Redevelopment Project to safeguard the 18th-century building and conserve its precious collections for future generations. The collections, spanning millennia, have been in its care for over 400 years. The Library now faces conservation challenges with pollution and dust accumulation taking their toll, and an urgent need to improve fire protection and environmental controls. The Old Library Redevelopment Project, currently underway, will draw on the best 21st century design and technology to preserve the Library for the world. Luke Jerram’s multifaceted artistic practice spans the realms of sculpture, installations, and live arts projects. Based in the UK, his international artistic journey commenced in 1997 and has since seen him orchestrate a multitude of art projects across the globe. Notably, in 2022 alone, his prolific output graced 104 exhibitions across 25 diverse countries, captivating the imaginations of over two million individuals. Bursar and Director of Strategic Innovation, Eleanor Denny, added, ‘We are delighted to display Gaia in the Long Room and look forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy the new artwork whilst learning more about the Old Library Redevelopment Project. This once- in-a-lifetime project will future-proof both the 18th- century building and its collections for the 22nd century and beyond. Luke Jerram frequently discusses the importance of protecting our planet and our role as caretakers, which resonates with the conservation purpose driving the Old Library Redevelopment Project.’ Every visit counts – proceeds generated by ticket sales are reinvested back into Trinity to support the academic mission of the university and fund development projects and conservation programmes. Entry to view Gaia is included in the new Book of Kells Experience ticket, and can be booked by emailing alumni@tcd.ie.
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