Crowds stood to watch the unveiling of a stunning new exhibition ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest.
For three weeks Floating Earth will shine across the Royal Albert Dock's inner quay as the "jewel" in the site's Eurovision calendar. The artist behind the exhibition, Luke Jerram, created Gaia - the stunning six metre replica of Earth previously displayed in Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral and St Chad's church in Kirkby.
The 10-metre artwork will be displayed in the water and illuminated after dusk, offering visitors a background like no other. On Thursday, April 27, a 200 person rock choir lined the Albert Dock as crowds gathered to watch the official opening of the exhibition.
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Similarly to Gaia, Floating Earth uses NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface, giving visitors the chance to see Earth floating in three dimensions. The artwork uses water as a natural mirror to provide a breathtaking visual effect.
The piece is accompanied by a soundscape by BAFTA award winning composer, Dan Jones. Sensory-friendly viewings, without the soundscape, will be available on Sundays.
Floating Earth will be on display from 12pm until 10pm on Friday, April 28 until Thursday, May 18, giving Eurovision fans the chance to see the remarkable artwork light up the historic Royal Albert Dock.
Visitors can see it during the early Spring Bank Holiday and Coronation Bank Holiday, as well as throughout all of Eurovision’s key dates, including two semi- finals and the Grand Final.
Floating Earth is completely free to visit.
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