Welsh insurance and risk management specialist Thomas Carroll has taken on an unusual assignment after being asked to insure the Earth, or at least a six-metre version of it.
The independent firm is insuring Gaia, the spectacular illuminated Earth artwork by internationally acclaimed artist Luke Jerram, which has been permanently installed at Techniquest in Cardiff.
The installation forms part of the science discovery centre’s 40th anniversary celebrations and marks the first permanent installation of one of Jerram’s world-renowned artworks in Wales.
Measuring six metres in diameter, Gaia uses detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface to give visitors a new perspective on the planet.
The large-scale artwork has been created to encourage people to view Earth as a whole while considering how science, creativity and collective action can help shape its future.
For Thomas Carroll, the unusual insurance request builds on an established relationship with Techniquest. The two organisations are set to celebrate 10 years of working together in 2027.
Rachel Townsend, Senior Client Executive at Thomas Carroll, said: “Thomas Carroll is sometimes asked to insure some pretty unique things, but when we were asked by Techniquest to insure the Earth – as you can imagine there were a few raised eyebrows. But in all seriousness, we’re incredibly proud to be part of Techniquest’s exciting 40th anniversary celebrations and to be insuring such a significant and inspiring installation as Gaia.
“Our relationship with Techniquest has always been a great example of how we can support organisations that make a real difference in our communities. To see Gaia become a permanent part of Techniquest and inspire generations of visitors is fantastic, and we’re very happy to play our part. With 10 years of partnership to celebrate next year, it’s an exciting time for both organisations.”
The installation represents a significant addition to Techniquest as it marks four decades of engaging visitors with science.
Sue Wardle, CEO at Techniquest, said: “This is a really big year for Techniquest as we celebrate 40 years of inspiring people through science, and Gaia is a wonderful part of that story. It will leave a lasting legacy for our visitors and provide a new way for people to engage with some of the biggest questions facing our planet. We hope it will inspire curiosity, reflection and meaningful conversations about the world we share.
“Thomas Carroll has been a fantastic partner to us over the past decade, supporting Techniquest as we continue to grow and evolve. It’s a great partnership, built on trust and shared values, and we’re delighted that they are helping us protect and safeguard Gaia as part of our insurance programme. We look forward to celebrating 10 years together in 2027.”
