As Liverpool prepares itself for the arrival of the spectacular Eurovision Song Contest this year, we’ve revealed the first of its celebratory events to mark the occasion, one which promises to dazzle and delight both local and international visitors.
In the run-up to 13th May and the contest’s Grand Final, we’re rolling out a huge series of events. From Ukrainian food and drink, live music events to creative pop-ups, the jewel in our programme is the installation of a 10-metre artwork, ‘Floating Earth’, which will shine brightly in the dock from 28th April – 18th May.
The piece, by artist Luke Jerram, uses detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface, and provides visitors with the opportunity to see our planet floating gently in three dimensions – creating Liverpool’s most incredible backdrop.
Using the water’s surface as a natural mirror, the artwork will present a stunning and awe-inspiring visual effect, accompanied by a breath-taking soundscape by BAFTA award winning composer, Dan Jones.
Illuminated after dusk, visitors will be able to marvel at the shining Floating Earth from all around the inner quay, offering a background setting like no other when dining al fresco at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants.
Artist Luke Jerram comments, “It’s great to be able to present my artwork at Royal Albert Dock. As a child growing up in the countryside, the first ever art exhibition I saw was as a child age 14 at Tate Liverpool. It was an exhibition by Giacometti and it was a light bulb moment that inspired me to want to experience more art and become an artist. So to be able to present my artwork in this special location means a great deal to me.”
Floating Earth will be in situ in the dock’s inner quay over 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 on Saturday 13th May.
Visitors can view the installation daily from 12-10pm for free, accompanied with a soundscape by BAFTA award-winning composer Dan Jones. Sensory-friendly viewings, without the soundscape, are available on Sundays.