Contemporary artist Ernesto Neto brings a bit of the Amazon Rainforest to the heart of Zurich station in Switzerland. Dubbed
Gaia Mother Tree , the gigantic installation amazes more than half a million spectators. people who pass through the place daily. The work invites passers-by to a moment of contemplation and experience, as well as proposing a moment of reflection on sustainability.
The work, almost 20 meters long, references a large tree, composed of a transparent structure made of colorful cotton strips,
tied by hand, which extends to the ceiling of the venue's lobby. "The idea is to slow down the our time, to have a moment to breathe and feel life within us", comments Ernesto.
The upper part of the work covers the roof of the station, while at the base of the tree, visitors can find a space to stand and rest on the seats arranged in a circle. To complete the experience, teardrop-shaped elements hanging from the branches are filled with spices. aromatic and dried leaves. The base of the installation was also created to hold a range
of events: reflections on work and conferences, workshops , lots of music for adults and children and a series of meditations. The
Gaia Mother Tree was created in cooperation with the
Huni Kuin , an indigenous community living in the Amazon region near the border with Peru, and sponsored by
the Beyeler Foundation. The installation will be on display to the public until July 29th! https://youtu.be/PcCCZb97crk
