Art Installation of 'Beached Whale' Captivates COP29 in Azerbaijan

A hyper-realistic model of a sperm whale draws crowds in Baku, aiming to raise awareness on climate change during the UN climate summit.

The 52-foot model whale, created by the Captain Boomer collective, is designed to look and smell like a real beached whale using molds and rotting fish.
The installation coincides with the COP29 climate summit in Baku, where global leaders discuss strategies to combat climate change.
Captain Boomer uses the whale as a metaphor for ecological disruption, intending to provoke thought and challenge perceptions about human impact on nature.
The art piece has traveled from Belgium through Europe to Azerbaijan, with approval from local authorities and support from activist Adnan Hussein.
The installation includes street theater performances, with actors portraying scientists to engage the public in discussions about the whale's 'stranding.'