Liverpool Cathedral has just announced it will be the first cathedral to host Helios, the newest touring artwork inspired by the sun, by renowned British artist, Luke Jerram.
Liverpool Cathedral brings The Sun, Helios for Easter
This is a new collaboration for Liverpool Cathedral which has worked alongside the artist to create something new.
Helios can be seen in the cathedral over the Easter period, from Friday 4th April to Friday 9th May 2025.
Measuring seven meters in diameter, Helios offers an extraordinary view of the Sun, providing visitors a safe and detailed look at its surface.
With imagery at a scale of 1:200 million, every centimetre of the artwork represents 2000km of the Sun’s surface.
The internally lit sculpture highlights sunspots, spicules, filaments, and even the origins of solar flares that recently brought the Northern Lights to the UK and there’s a specially commissioned surround sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson too.
The soundscape features fire sounds, NASA solar mission recordings, summer beaches, and uplifting ambient music, connecting audiences with the Sun’s role in life, health, and culture.
The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said:
“We are thrilled to be the first cathedral to host Helios as we continue working closely with Luke Jerram on this wonderful lineup of celestial installations.
“Helios is a stunning celebration of the Sun’s life-giving power and its significance across cultures and faiths.
“It’s a privilege to bring such an awe-inspiring installation to our community and visitors, reaffirming our place at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural life.
“We are delighted that Helios will be installed over the Easter period which helps us to reflect on light and the life-giving light of the resurrection which brings new life.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience this breathtaking artwork in our magnificent space.”
Helios is a co-commission by Liverpool Cathedral alongside National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
Its debut in Liverpool Cathedral as an indoor installation underscores the city’s reputation as a cultural powerhouse and Liverpool Cathedral’s commitment to leading the way in art and culture.
Luke Jerram was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in 2019 and is known for merging art and science to inspire awe, wonder, and dialogue.
He said:
“The importance of the Sun for all life on planet Earth cannot be understated. It has fascinated scientists, inspired musicians, poets and artists, in societies right across the world. Helios not only offers an up-close view of our most vital celestial body but also sparks conversations about the environment, mental health, and the unifying power of the Sun across cultures.
“As a focal point for community and culture in the city and venue of national importance, I am delighted that Liverpool Cathedral will be one of the first venues to present Helios. My ‘Museum of the Moon’ and ‘Gaia’ artworks were incredibly popular when they were presented at the cathedral, and I hope that Helios provides an equally uplifting experience for visitors,” he added.
A programme of events and tickets will soon follow, do check the website and socials for updates.
Visit the Liverpool cathedral website here.
Photo : Gareth Jones
