Gaia, an amazing 3D replicas of our plant created by artist Luke Jerram, was installed on May 25 ahead of the Liverpool’s River Festival 2019

More than 200,000 people saw the spectacular replica earth that was on display in Liverpool Cathedral in May and June.

Gaia, an amazing 3D replicas of our plant created by artist Luke Jerram, was installed on May 25 ahead of the Liverpool’s River Festival 2019. It was one of the key pieces in the Changing Tides creative programme and was on display until June 23.

Liverpool Cathedral saw a total number of 202,677 visitors during the period and around 170,000 people from across the region came specifically to see the installation. And 14,000 experienced the 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the earth’s surface from another perspective after climbing the Cathedral’s Dulverton Bridge.

Social media came alive as people took the whole world in their hands posting and sharing pictures of the artwork taken from every conceivable angle.

Visitors experienced a varied programme of earth-inspired events under the installation such as talks, music, storytelling, yoga and even the first British astronaut in space, Helen Sharman put in an appearance.

One of the other highlights was the ‘Quiet Hour’ for those who might have found the huge crowds daunting, for example, someone who has an autism spectrum condition or sensory processing differences could contemplate the artwork away from the hustle and bustle.

Prayer stations were placed around the Cathedral to help them reflect on the earth’s significance in creation. Around 48,000 candles were lit while Gaia was in place compared to 10,000 usually used in the same time period.

The Dean of Liverpool, the Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, who has been astounded by the response to the installation, said: “It has been such an amazing privilege to be able to host so many people in our building to encounter such a breathtaking experience. As a cathedral built by the people for the people, to the glory of God, we are a focal point for people in Liverpool and visitors to the city.

“The Earth or Gaia installation has been brilliant. I’m thrilled with the impact it has had and the profound questions it asks about our role in God’s world.”