Gaia installation for town museum

READING will get a glimpse of an out-of-thisworld artwork as part of a new installation.

The Town Hall will be home to a worldfamous piece of art by Luke Jerram when his Gaia project visits this summer.

The artwork features a globe constructed with the use of high-resolution NASA imagery, totalling around seven metres in diameter.

It includes a bespoke, surround-sound composition by BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones, creating an immersive experience.

Visitors will be given the opportunity to sign up to 'small changes' pledges which will contribute to a community of people taking small measures to effect big change.

It will form part of the town's events for the Reading Climate Festival, which aims to inspire people to consider climate action and to take steps to reduce their impact on the environment.

The festival sees a range of in-person and online events to drive public engagement with climate issues and to raise awareness of what needs to be done to tackle the climate crisis.

Gaia has been brought to the town by Reading Borough Council, Reading Climate Change Partnership, Reading Business Improvement District, and the University of Reading.

Reading Borough Council's lead member for climate strategy and transport, Cllr Tony Page, said: “We’re privileged and delighted to be bringing Gaia to Reading this summer.

“I’d encourage residents to experience the installation, make their climate change commitment and play their part in building a cleaner greener town – Think Global Act

Local.”

Tracey Rawling Church, co-chair of Reading Climate Change Partnership, said: “Reading Climate Festival started small in 2020 as a way of inspiring and encouraging action on climate change and has raised its ambition year by year. "We’re absolutely thrilled that Gaia.”

Alexa Volker, manager of Reading’s

Business Improvement District, said: “Hosting Gaia as the flagship event of this year’s Reading Climate Festival will provide a sharp reminder of the part we can all play in shaping a better future.”

■ The Gaia installation will be available to see during opening hours, though booking will be necessary via: whatsonreading.com/gaia

■ Full details about Reading Climate Festival 2023, which will take place between Saturday, June 10, and Wednesday, June 21, are available via: readingcan.org.uk/festival/