Derby Cathedral and its key partners have organised a wide range of events from mindfulness, music and Flowga to discussions, poetry and creative writing which are all inspired by the ‘Gaia’ artwork that will land in Derby as part of its world tour.
Created by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram, ‘Gaia’ measures seven metres in diameter and is created from 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface.
Visitors will have an astronaut’s view of the planet in its entirety as it slowly revolves above the nave in Derby Cathedral, accompanied by a surround-sound composition by BAFTA award winning composer Dan Jones.
‘Gaia’ will be unveiled to the public on September 22nd and will remain in place until October 16th. It is programmed in association with Derby Festé that takes place on 23rd and 24th September and has been brought to the city with the support and sponsorship of the University of Derby and Cosy Direct.
During the ‘Gaia’ installation, a diverse events programme has been organised https://derbycathedral.org/gaia-events/.
Mindfulness sessions: Monday September 26th and Monday October 10th at Derby Cathedral, 7pm to 8pm
Organised in partnership with Déda and mindfulness teacher Pam Sidhu, these relaxing sessions encourage participants to step into the moment and experience techniques that help take charge of thought processes. Tickets cost £10 and are available to book at https://www.deda.uk.com/whats-on/mindfulness-under-gaia
Urban Ramble, Friday September 30th, starting and finishing at Derby Cathedral, 11am to 12.30pm
Join Down to Earth Derby and Sprout Derby for a fun and educational ramble around the city – identifying flora and fauna and learning about plans for nature-based regeneration in the city. This is a free event but booking is essential as spaces are limited: https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/urban-ramble/
Music and Wellbeing, Monday October 3rd, Derby Cathedral, 7pm to 8pm
A fun and insightful event focusing on the benefits of music to wellbeing. The talk is based on research by Dr Yoon Irons and Professor David Sheffield at the University of Derby and features the University Choir. This has been organised in partnership with the University of Derby and is free to all UoD staff and students, otherwise tickets cost £7. Booking is essential at https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/music-and-wellbeing/
Creative Writing, Tuesday October 4th, Derby Cathedral, 10am to 11am
Budding writers from novices to novelists are invited to capture their thoughts and ideas through creative writing, inspired by ‘Gaia’. This fun and engaging event is led by the Café Writers Society and is free to attend with a suggested donation of £5 but booking is essential https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/gaia-creative-writing/
Flowga, Wednesday October 5th, Derby Cathedral, 7pm to 8pm
Flowga teacher Matilda Rowland will lead a fusion exercise class to stretch and strengthen – combining yoga, pilates and movement. No previous experience of yoga or pilates is necessary and mats are available if you don’t have your own. This is organised in partnership with Déda with tickets costing £10 or £6 concessions which can be booked online at https://www.deda.uk.com/class/flowga
Autumn Lunchtime Recitals, Friday October 7th and Friday October 14th, Derby Cathedral, 1pm to 1.45pm
Part of Derby Cathedral’s popular lunchtime recitals series, these free performances will be under the stunning ‘Gaia’ artwork. Booking is not required but a retiring collection goes towards funding music at Derby Cathedral. For the latest recital information visit https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/gaia-lunchtime-recitals/
Derby Poetry Festival at ‘Gaia’, Wednesday October 12th, Derby Cathedral, 7pm to 8pm
An open event which is free to join including Earth-themed readings by local poets and the chance for participants to take to the mic to read their favourite poem or one they have written themselves. No booking required and for more information visit https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/Derby-poetry-festival/
Meet The Artist of ‘Gaia’ Online, Thursday October 13th, 7pm to 8pm
A unique opportunity to learn more about the work of internationally-renowned artist Luke Jerram who speaks about his work, inspirations and methodology to Professor Keith McLay, Provost – Learning and Teaching at the University of Derby. Luke’s multidisciplinary arts practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live artworks which excite and inspire people around the world. Other work includes Museum of the Moon, Of Earth and Sky and In Memoriam. This is a free online event with a suggested donation of £5 but booking is essential as a link will be provided prior to the event to those who sign up https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/meet-the-gaia-artist/
The Blue Marble, Friday October 14th, Derby Cathedral, 2pm to 3pm
A facilitated discussion reflecting on the issues that ‘Gaia’ presents, particularly considering the first-hand reality of seeing Earth in space as a tiny fragile ball of life ‘hanging in the void’. Chaired by Dr Rhiannon Jones, Associate Professor (Civic) at the University of Derby, this is an informal event where you can listen or participate in the discussion. This event is free to attend and participants are welcome to join the Autumn Lunchtime Recital which precedes this event at 1pm. For more information visit https://derbycathedral.org/events/events/civiclab-the-blue-marble/
For dates and further information about opening times during the art installation at Derby Cathedral, visit www.derbycathedral.org/gaia
