Bridgwater’s ‘Fallen Moon’ had £45,000 budget for artwork

The artwork lasted just one week before falling victim to Storm Ashley, which caused irreparable damage to the fabric and electronic infrastructure. It was intended to run from October 14 to November 3, 2024.

Funding for the ‘Fallen Moon’ was derived from one of eleven pots of money distributed from the £23.2 million Bridgwater Town Deal. Since the damage to the artwork, it has remained deflated in Bridgwater Docks.

A spokesperson for Bridgwater Town Council said: “The Fallen Moon” is part of the programme of events aimed at animating the town centre through an Events and Cultural programme to utilise the places and spaces within Bridgwater Town Centre, enhancing what Bridgwater has to offer.”

“The budget for “The Fallen Moon” project was £45,000. Payments for services to set up the project, aside from the fee to Luke Jerram’s company, were made to local providers for security, sound, lighting, and other necessary services.”

The spokesperson added: “The Fallen Moon’ and similar initiatives will continue to enrich Bridgwater’s cultural landscape and provide lasting benefits to the community. ‘The Fallen Moon’ has not incurred any costs to the Town Council.”

“To date, over £87,000 has been distributed in grants to local arts and cultural organisations. Additional grants will be provided throughout 2024/2025 for various events, festivals, a large mural in Eastover, a legacy film project, and a heritage trail, all aimed at fostering significant community engagement.”

The ‘Fallen Moon’ artwork saw over 10,000 visitors in the week it was exhibited, along with 800 families and children participating in free education programmes.

The artwork was beset by difficulties in its first week, along with a partial deflation and other technical difficulties. Luke Jerram's multidisciplinary arts practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live artworks across the world.