For those longing to brighten the grey days of the English winter, the Old Royal Naval College offers a luminous reprieve with the London premiere of Luke Jerram’s latest touring artwork, Helios. This seven-meter celestial masterpiece, co-commissioned by the Old Royal Naval College, transforms the majestic Painted Hall into a space of wonder and warmth, offering visitors a dazzling ‘winter sun’ experience.
The Sun as Art and Inspiration
Named after the ancient sun god Helios, this extraordinary installation celebrates the Sun’s profound impact on humanity, exploring themes of solar cycles, mental wellbeing, and cultural traditions inspired by its life-giving light. Helios serves as a reminder of the Sun’s vital role in shaping our lives, especially during the colder, darker months.
At a breathtaking scale of 1:200 million, the internally lit sculpture allows audiences to marvel at the Sun’s intricate surface features, from sunspots to filaments. Using imagery compiled from NASA observations and astrophotographer Dr. Stuart Green’s work (2018–2024), the installation reveals the Sun’s fiery beauty in unparalleled detail. A specially composed surround soundscape by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson enhances the experience, immersing visitors in a sensory journey that celebrates our closest star.
A Baroque Backdrop for the Modern Sun
The setting for Helios is as extraordinary as the installation itself. The Painted Hall, often called “Britain’s Sistine Chapel,” provides a stunning Baroque backdrop. Created by Sir James Thornhill between 1707 and 1726, the Hall features Apollo, the classical sun god, casting light over King William III and Queen Mary II in its central oval. This interplay of mythological and historical themes complements Helios, connecting past and present through art and science.
The Vision Behind Helios
Luke Jerram, renowned for installations like Gaia, Museum of the Moon, and Mars, describes Helios as his most ambitious design to date. “The soundscape, lighting, and sheer scale of Helios make it one of my most dramatic works. It’s designed to inspire awe and curiosity, while also highlighting the grandeur of this iconic Hall,” he says.
Matthew Mees, Chief Executive at the Old Royal Naval College, emphasizes the collaborative effort behind the project: “Helios reflects the power of partnerships in creating extraordinary cultural experiences. This artwork highlights the beauty and mystery of the Sun, the magnificence of the Painted Hall, and the stories behind its paintings.”
Events to Illuminate the Soul
Alongside the installation, the Old Royal Naval College will host a series of special events to enhance the Helios experience. Highlights include:
- Step into the Cosmos: A silent disco set within the Painted Hall, blending music with the cosmic atmosphere of Helios.
- Sustainable Fine Dining: An exclusive culinary experience with Douglas McMaster, chef and owner of Silo, the world’s first Zero Waste restaurant.
A Collaboration of Art and Science
Co-commissioned by the National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College, and University College London, Helios exemplifies the fusion of creativity and scientific discovery. With guidance from solar scientist Professor Lucie Green (UCL), the installation bridges art, science, and heritage, inviting audiences to see the Sun—and the world around them—in a new light.
Don’t miss this opportunity to bask in the brilliance of Helios at the Old Royal Naval College’s Painted Hall. Let this captivating installation illuminate your winter and inspire a deeper appreciation for the Sun’s timeless influence on our lives.
Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NN
25th January 2025 – 25th March 2025
Tickets available ornc.org/whats-on/
