Gaia installation by Luke Jerram attracts visitors at Helsinki Cathedral in Finland

In the heart of Helsinki’s iconic cathedral, a seven-meter-wide replica of the Earth spins slowly. The atmosphere is filled with a harmonious blend of conversations in multiple languages, creating a chaotic yet serene ambiance. Visitors around the church are capturing photos on their smartphones and sharing whispers with those beside them. The source of the excitement? The acclaimed British artist Luke Jerram’s world-renowned “Gaia” installation, which has been brought to the Finnish capital.

Jerram is celebrated for his unique sculptures, installations, and live art performances, with his works featured in over 800 exhibitions across more than 50 countries. The Gaia artwork represents Earth as seen by those who have traveled to space, providing a detailed view of the planet based on NASA imagery.

This installation is part of the Helsinki Cathedral Parish’s “Sustainable Future” event, which focuses on themes such as the future of creation, social justice, global responsibility, and peace initiatives. These subjects are explored through art, music, and expert lectures. “We are concerned about our shared planet and want to encourage collective action for its benefit,” explains Anni Roiha, project manager for the Helsinki Cathedral Parish.

The Gaia globe offers a striking opportunity to experience our planet in three dimensions and impactful scale; one centimeter of the artwork represents 18 kilometers of actual Earth. Visitors can even explore the Northern Hemisphere from the cathedral’s galleries, prompting reflections on humanity’s perspective beyond Europe.

The installation features a soundscape created by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones and was first unveiled in Britain in 2018, previously appearing at the Oulu Light Festival in Finland in 2021. Gaia will be publicly displayed at Helsinki Cathedral until October 27.