Old Royal Naval College to host London premiere of Luke Jerram’s new celestial installation Helios.
For those looking for some winter sun, the Old Royal Naval College proudly presents the London premiere of Luke Jerram’s new touring artwork, Helios. Co-commissioned by the Old Royal Naval College, this new seven-meter celestial artwork by the celebrated British installation artist will bring light and wonder to the majestic Painted Hall, one of the most impressive Baroque interiors in Europe. Helios promises a sunny escape – sans passport – in an extraordinary setting, complemented by an exceptional programme of events celebrating wellbeing and culture.
Given the inherent dangers associated with looking directly at the Sun, Helios offers a rare opportunity to closely examine the star’s extraordinary surface in astonishing detail. At a scale of 1:200 million, every centimetre of the seven metre internally lit masterpiece represents 200km of the Sun’s fiery expanse. Visitors will be captivated by the intricate beauty of sunspots, spicules, and filaments, including the solar activity that produced the UK’s mesmerising Northern Lights in May 2024.
“The soundscape, lighting and sheer scale of Helios, make this the most dramatic and ambitious of my designs and I cannot wait to see it showcased in the Painted Hall. This installation is designed to be thought-provoking and inspire awe. It is also a unique opportunity to discover the grandeur of this iconic Hall and the many celestial, mythological and historical themes it explores in its painted ceiling.” – Luke Jerram
A series of special events will be hosted around Helios including an exclusive Sustainable Fine Dining Experience with Douglas McMaster, chef and owner at Silo, the world's first Zero Waste restaurant.
Special Events
- Fine Dining Experience with Douglas McMaster 25th January 2025
- Feel Good Friday Yoga in the Painted Hall 31st January 2025
- Valentine’s Dinner in the Painted Hall 14th February 2025
- Lie Down and Listen: All is Full of Love 14th February 2025 15th March 2025
- Step into the Cosmos: Silent Disco 22nd March 2025
- Social Media Mondays Helios in the Painted Hall Every Monday, 25th January 2025 – 25th March 2025
- Quiet Hour Fridays Helios in the Painted Hall Every Friday, 25th January 2025 – 25th March 2025
Helios has been co-commissioned by the National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College, and University College London.
Helios by Luke Jerram: 25th January 2025 – 25th March 2025
Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NN