GEOPHANIES
GEOPHANIES [dʒɪˈɒfəni] | 2019 (GLOBAÏA); from Ancient Greek γῆ (gê, “earth”) + φαίνω (phaínō, “shine, appear, tell”). 1 · Artistic and humanistic visualisations of Earth, illustrating the planet as an interconnected, complex, and co-evolving entity, grounded in scientific understanding. 2 · Evocative portrayals of our collective home, the Earth, intended to inspire feelings of admiration, affection, and responsibility for the wellbeing and future of life on this wondrous blue planet.
For the first time ever, GLOBAÏA is preparing a world-class collection of awe-inspiring and intricately detailed planetary visualisations for public exhibition. Entitled GEOPHANIES, the exhibition promises to immerse, astonish, and enlighten.
A contemporary showcase of geovisualisation art and science, GEOPHANIES emulates the “overview effect”—a profound experience often described by astronauts as they view Earth from space, recognising the unity and diversity of all life.
Three core themes structure the exhibition—Planetary Awareness, Planetary Emergency, and Planetary Stewardship. Much more than abstract concepts, these themes act as vital imperatives. With its beautiful and artful visualizations, GEOPHANIES inspires a shift in consciousness. The exhibition motivates individuals and communities to recognize our shared destiny, our collective agency, and our capacity to shape a more resilient and compassionate world.
Dramatic lighting and rich soundscapes transport visitors beyond the confines of Earth, enabling them to experience our world from a cosmological viewpoint. Through the use of large rear-illuminated transparencies and projected animations—combined with sound environments and interactive stations—visitors will be offered a multi-sensory experience on a grand scale. As the exhibition unfolds, guests contemplate our place within the universe and our role as a species.
By blending art and science, emotion and intellect, the known and the unseen, GEOPHANIES transcends traditional boundaries. It invites us to look beyond ourselves, to see Earth as a singular, precious entity, and to embrace our role as stewards of this life-giving planet. GEOPHANIES is a call to reflect, to reconnect, and to act, driven by a vision of a just and flourishing future for both people and the biosphere.
During an era when humanity faces unprecedented challenges—from ecological crises to social inequities—GEOPHANIES brings a global perspective to the public sphere. The exhibition serves as a beacon of awareness, encouraging us to understand our responsibilities to both our local communities and our planetary home.
ANTHROPOCENE SPRAWLED
Throughout history, human civilizations have occupied all inhabitable areas of the planet, from isolated island communities such as Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, to massive cities like Tokyo and Delhi. The Great Acceleration, which followed World War II, marked a rapid surge in global industrial activity, leading to the emergence of an ultra-connected yet fragile and unsustainable world: the Anthropocene.
Themes
Three themes are structuring the exhibition in an unfolding narrative:
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The exhibition will begin by raising awareness about the interconnectedness of Earth’s living systems and the dramatic impact of human activity. This theme will be illustrated through large-scale, detailed artworks that bring to life planetary patterns, trends and phenomena.
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As we delve deeper, we confront the stark reality of our planetary emergency. This section of the exhibition illuminates the pressing challenges we face, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and the approach of environmental tipping points. Through evocative and thought-provoking artworks, visitors will bear witness to the Anthropocene epoch, a time defined by humanity's indelible mark on the Ecosphere.
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In the final stage of our journey, we are called to reflect on our collective responsibility to safeguard a thriving future for all life on Earth. This section will showcase inspiring visualizations that celebrate the power of nature conservation, ecosystem restoration, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable technologies. These images will serve as a beacon of hope, inviting each visitor to embrace their role as a planetary steward and join the movement towards a harmonious, sustainable world.
ONE PLANETARY CIVILISATION
Our planet is home to a diverse and complex civilization, full of different cultures, languages, and beliefs. Despite our differences, there is something that unites us all: our shared humanity. We all have the same basic needs for food, shelter, and love, and we all have the capacity for empathy, compassion, and understanding. May we work towards a planetary civilisation that is united in our commitment to building a better future for all.
Why Geophanies?
A Pivotal Time in History
The Big Picture and the Long View.
We are at a critical moment in human history, and the collective choices we make will have a profound effect on the future of our species. Do we have the foresight and wisdom to collaborate as a global community?
Creating a Safe and Just Future
Transformating and evolving civilization.
The global challenges of our era require a comprehensive approach and coordinated action by governments, businesses, communities and citizens. How will we come together to ensure a healthy, just, resilient, and sustainable future?
Shifting Worldviews
Remembering our connection to all life.
A planetary worldview recognizes that we are part of a larger community of life, and that our well-being is inextricably linked to the well-being of other species and the planet as a whole. How can we foster a deeper sense of belonging, connection and reverence?
Art + Science
Touching hearts and minds.
By emulating what astronauts experience when viewing Earth from space, the synthesis of art and science activates our sense of awe and wonder. What experiences will remind us that we are planetary stewards and social change agents?
Large Backlit Artworks
Museum-Grade Fine Art Prints
An immersive sensory experience emulating the Overview Effect, through large artworks, evocative soundscapes and a meticulously crafted lighting.
PLANETARY FLOWS
The planet pulses with a rhythm all its own, a symphony of flows that bind the natural and the man-made. Mighty rivers carve their way through ancient mountains, rushing to embrace the sea. Winds sweep across the earth, carrying with them the scents of distant lands. The cycle of seasons weaves its tapestry of color, as the sun and moon dance their endless dance. Across the planet, these flows intertwine and merge, a never-ending dance of nature and culture. Each element connected to the other, in a grand web of life that stretches from the smallest creek to the largest city.
World Economic Forum, 2023.
Join Us
Geophanies offers a unique opportunity to transform worldviews and inspire diverse participants at COP28 and in the community. This will be a high-visibility, memorable exhibition that reminds Conference attendees and concerned citizens about the vital mission ahead.
