[As of May 1st, due to continued inclement weather, the exhibit has come to an end. It will no longer be on display until May 7th.]
A huge, illuminated model of the moon landed in Coral Gables last month to wow crowds and serve as the perfect backdrop for flashy shots. Now, a model of the Earth by the same artist has arrived in Key Biscayne, kicking off on Earth Day and on display for visitors through May 7th.
Named “Gaia,” the spectacular spherical work by artist Luke Jerram, has been installed at the Art in Public Places: Monaco Reflection Pools, where the artwork is free to visit.
The model measures nearly 23 feet in diameter and features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface, providing onlookers with a view of the planet on a large scale — without traveling to space. As a touring art installation, it’s made many appearances throughout Germany to Australia, the UK, Sweden and beyond.
The exhibit, presented by the Key Biscayne Community Foundation and the Village of Key Biscayne, aims to create a feeling of awe for the planet and a renewed sense of responsibility for looking after it. After all, it’s easy to take our home for granted as we go about our days.
“It serves as a powerful symbol of the Village of Key Biscayne’s commitment to protecting our environment,” said Melissa White, President and CEO of the KBCF. “The artwork provides the viewer with a new perspective of our place on this fragile planet, a sense that the societies of the Earth are all interconnected by and dependent on our environment. This is true in South Florida, and particularly profound here on our island community of Key Biscayne.”
In fact, Gaia’s current location, opposite of Paradise Park, holds symbolic significance. The park was once a gas station before it was given new life.
“After more than 20 years, the former brownfield has been transformed into a beautiful park and community gathering space,” said Village Manager, Steve Williamson. “This exemplifies Key Biscayne’s commitment to our environment. We took a parking lot and created more paradise.”
You can see Gaia in all its glory at 530 Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne. It will be on display for three days each week, through the weekend of May 7, from sundown to midnight. Make sure to see it after dark when it’s illuminated.
For more information and the full schedule, visit kbcf.org/gaia.