Giant sculpture inspired by the sun to go on display at National Trust properties
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A giant sculpture inspired by the sun is to go on display at National Trust locations this year. Helios, named after the ancient Greek mythological god who personified the sun, is by acclaimed artist Luke Jerram. It is Jerram’s latest astronomical artwork, following his sculptures Museum Of The Moon, Gaia, and Mars.
The piece was co-commissioned by the National Trust and will be displayed at locations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2025. Measuring seven metres in diameter, Helios features solar imagery, sunlight and a surround sound composition including Nasa recordings of the sun by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.
On Friday, the sculpture was unveiled in the Georgian Ball Room at Bath Assembly Rooms, where people including Charles Dickens and Jane Austen have viewed art and performances over the decades. Jerram said: “We all know that it is very dangerous to look directly at the sun, as it can damage our eyesight.
“Helios provides a safe opportunity for the public to get up close to, and inspect, its extraordinarily detailed surface including sunspots, spicules and filaments. “The Northern Lights are one of the greatest wonders and displays of art in the natural world.
“I’ve incorporated the source of the solar flares which caused this phenomenon to be visible over the UK in May 2024. “I hope that the soundscape, lighting and sheer scale of Helios will combine to make an extraordinary and uplifting experience for the public and I cannot wait to see it showcased in some of the most wonderful locations around England, Wales and Northern Ireland.”.
