In the news: The Moon Lands in Basildon: A Cosmic First for South Essex!
Basildon is about to get a little closer to the heavens as Museum of the Moon, a breathtaking 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, 2025.It will stay at the church in St. Martin's Square for three weeks.
Creative BasildON is thrilled to be steering the welcome of this internationally celebrated installation to the town, and has curated an associated programme of events to run alongside it, marking another giant leap for its growing cultural reputation.
"This is more than just an artwork; it's an experience," said Rachel Brown, Programme Director of Creative BasildON. And, commenting on a national report which cited Basildon as being one of 2024's most depressing towns, she 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."
Councillor Jack Ferguson, Basildon Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Community, welcomed the news: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the Museum of the Moon to Basildon in February. This extraordinary installation is not just a sculpture, but an immersive experience that brings something truly special to our town centre. It offers an exciting opportunity to connect with culture in a way we've never seen before, and we're proud to be the first in South Essex to host this iconic piece. Events like this help to shine a spotlight on Basildon Town Centre, attracting visitors and fostering a sense of pride in our community. The Museum of the Moon will undoubtedly be a memorable experience for residents and visitors of all ages, and we look forward to seeing the town come alive."
Thousands of residents are expected to visit the church in St.Martin's Square to visit the Museum of the Moon, which they'll be able to do until Saturday February 22.
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, 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.
For more information about the installation and the full list of events, visit https://creativebasildon.co.uk.
Ends
Published 3 January 2025