From Outer Worlds to Local Connections

Gloucester’s history is steeped in astronomical fascination, and outer space has been the source of wonder and intrigue for locals for many years, connecting science, art and local history. 

In recent years Gloucester had been in the news more than a few times with Space related stories.  You may remember in 2021, during lockdown, the rare meteorite that fell to earth, landing in a garden in Winchcombe, sparking huge interest from the science and astronomy worlds.

After careful analysis the meteorite was found to be 4.6 billion years old and pre-dates planet earth. It is incidents like this that plant the seed of interest and encourage people to find out more about space and the worlds beyond ours. 

For those interested in all things 'space', there is a stunning installation in Gloucester Cathedral called Mars: War and Peace by Luke Jerram, is by this British installation artist who creates sculptures and large artwork pieces including live projects.

This style of artwork gives visitors a uniquely interactive experience with planet Mars including a bespoke soundtrack featuring oceans, deserts and the sound of soldiers marching to war. The exhibition runs until the 3rd of November 2024. 

The piece which is seven metres in size, is suspended from the Nave at the Cathedral and slowly rotates in mid air allowing visitors to see all surfaces of the planet with detail and imagery provided by NASA itself.  The Cathedral setting is the perfect backdrop for such an interactive experience and day time visits to see the piece are free to the public.  But if you’re looking for a more interactive experience, you can go along to see the sculpture after dark too, as a ticketed event here.  Here you will see the Majestic planet illuminated with sound effects. It is definitely worth seeing. 

“Presented with a new soundtrack in the context of a church or cathedral, a space to encourage peaceful contemplation, Mars: War & Peace provides an opportunity for the public to consider the history of human conflict around the world. I hope that visitors will feel transported to the inhospitable desert wasteland of Mars, whilst also reflecting on the realities of war for ordinary communities of people on our planet.” - Luke Jerram. 

There are also several activities to get involved in that accompany the exhibition, including the free Mars Family Quest Trail, and the 150th anniversary performance of Holst’s ‘Planet Suite’, by Cheltenham’s Symphony Orchestra on 12th October 2024.  This all ties in nicely with the planet theme that seems to be occurring in Gloucestershire.