An enormous, illuminated sculpture of the moon will be going on display at an Essex town next month. Basildon is about to get a little closer to the heavens as Museum of the Moon, a breath-taking seven-metre-wide art installation by world-renowned artist Luke Jerram, arrives at St Martin’s Church in February.
Featuring astonishingly detailed NASA imagery, the illuminated sculpture offers residents a unique chance to walk beneath the moon and experience it like never before. The installation is 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.
This awe-inspiring touring lunar artwork, which has dazzled over 20 million people across 41 countries, has never been seen in south Essex – until now, opening to the public on Wednesday February 5. It will stay at the church in St. Martin’s Square for three weeks.
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Organisers Creative BasildON has curated an associated programme of events to run alongside it, marking another giant leap for its growing cultural reputation. Rachel Brown, programme director for Creative BasildON, said: “This is more than just an artwork; it’s an experience. 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.”
The installation, co-commissioned by a host of prestigious cultural organisations including Norfolk & Norwich Festival, Brighton Festival, and the UK Space Agency, will attract residents of all ages to its associated programme of events, all curated by Creative BasildON.
From puppetry performances for little ones by East 15 Acting School students to history and storytelling projects with Basildon’s elder residents, from arts and crafts to yoga, and even STEM talks about the moon’s mysteries, there’s something for everyone under its lunar glow.
Luke Jerram, the artest behind Museum of the Moon
(Image: Creative Basildon)
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.”
Don’t miss your chance to see the moon up close, right here in Basildon! This celestial celebration is set to ignite imaginations and shine a spotlight on the town’s vibrant creative energy.