Featuring astonishingly detailed NASA imagery, the illuminated sculpture, called The Museum of the Moon, will give people the unique chance to walk beneath our Earthly satellite and experience it like never before – and all for free.
Talented – The Moon creator, Luke Jerram (Image: Provided)
The sculpture has been created by world-renowned artist Luke Jerram and arrives at St Martin’s Church in February.
The awe-inspiring touring lunar artwork, which has dazzled over 20 million people across 41 countries, has never been seen in south Essex.
It will open to the public on Wednesday February 5. It will stay at the church in St Martin’s Square until February 22.
The installation will be accompanied by an enchanting surround-sound composition created by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award-winning composer Dan Jones, adding an immersive audio experience to the breathtaking lunar imagery.
Wow – The Museum of the Moon art installation in Ely Cathedral (Image: James Billings)
The project is being steered by Creative Basildon which has curated an associated programme of events to run alongside the lunar installation, including puppetry performances, arts and crafts workshops and talks about the mysteries of the Moon.
“This is more than just an artwork; it’s an experience,” said Rachel Brown, Programme Director of Creative Basildon.
Basildon – The town has been chosen to be the first place to host the installation in south Essex (Image: File photo)
Reacting to a national report which cited Basildon as being one of 2024’s most depressing towns to live in, Rachel added: “It’s a chance for everyone in our community to feel inspired, connected, and proud of where they live. Basildon is anything but ‘sad,’ and this proves it.”
Thousands of residents are expected to visit the Moon.
Artist Luke Jerram, whose public artworks have graced the Natural History Museum and the Commonwealth Games, said: “The moon is a cultural and scientific icon that unites us all. It’s wonderful to see how each community creates its own story around it.”
The installation has been co-commissioned by a host of cultural organisations including the Norfolk and Norwich Festival, Brighton Festival, and the UK Space Agency. It has appeared at events, festivals and in cathedrals and abbeys all over the world.