In a recent interview, artist Luke Jerram shared his thoughts on the challenges of creating ambitious artwork, specifically his giant replica of the moon, known as Fallen Moon, which was displayed in Bridgwater, Somerset. Unfortunately, the stunning installation, which is illuminated from within and based on NASA data, was damaged by storm Ashley over the weekend, leading to its deflation.
Reflecting on the experience, Jerram noted, “Creating large-scale artwork presented on water is always going to be a challenge with British weather.” He acknowledged the unpredictability of nature, stating that ambitious projects “don’t always go to plan.”
Despite the setback, Jerram expressed pride in his team in Bridgwater for their hard work in presenting the project and navigating its challenges. “I’m sad that the artwork didn’t withstand the storm, but I’m also proud of the team’s efforts,” he said.
The installation attracted over 10,000 visitors since its unveiling on October 15, and it was originally scheduled to run until November 3. Jerram emphasized the importance of pushing boundaries and exploring new techniques in an artist’s development, underscoring that “being willing to try new things is an important part of an artist’s growth.”
As the community reflects on the event, Bridgwater Town Council highlighted the positive reception of the artwork prior to its unfortunate fate. Jerram’s endeavor remains a testament to creativity and resilience in the face of nature’s unpredictability.