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Luke Jerram’s ‘Helios’ at the Painted Hall: A Dazzling Fusion of Art and Science

The historic Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, is now home to a mesmerising new installation: Helios by renowned British artist Luke Jerram. Known for his large-scale celestial artworks, Jerram has once again captured the imagination of art lovers and science enthusiasts alike.
A Tribute to the Sun



Helios is a seven-metre-wide internally illuminated sculpture of the Sun, suspended within the grandeur of the Painted Hall. Named after the ancient Greek sun god, this breathtaking artwork highlights the Sun’s awe-inspiring power and significance throughout history, science, and mythology.
Crafted using high-resolution imagery from NASA and leading solar astrophotographers, Helios reveals intricate solar details, including sunspots, filaments, and flares. Each centimetre of the sculpture represents 2,000 km of the Sun’s vast surface, offering visitors an unprecedented close-up view of our star.
A Harmonious Setting

The Painted Hall, often referred to as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the UK’, provides a striking contrast to Jerram’s modern installation. Its Baroque interiors, adorned with intricate frescoes by Sir James Thornhill, form a stunning backdrop, bridging classical art with contemporary creativity. The juxtaposition of Helios with the Hall’s celestial-themed ceiling creates a powerful dialogue between past and present.
A Multi-Sensory Experience
Complementing the visual spectacle, Helios is accompanied by an immersive soundscape composed by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson. The audio, inspired by solar activity and cosmic phenomena, deepens the sensory experience, drawing visitors into a meditative reflection on the Sun’s influence on life and time.
Special Events and Visiting Information
To enhance the experience, the Old Royal Naval College has curated a series of events:
- Thursday Lates: Extended opening hours until 8 pm, allowing visitors to experience Helios in an atmospheric evening setting.
- Quiet Hour Fridays: A more serene experience from 10:15 am to 11:15 am, ideal for those seeking a moment of contemplation.
- Social Media Mondays: Reduced visitor capacity to help photographers capture the installation at its best.

When and Where to See Helios
Helios will be on display in the Painted Hall until 25 March 2025. Entry is included with a Painted Hall ticket (£16.50 per adult, free for children), making this a must-visit for art lovers, science enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Helios
Luke Jerram’s work has a proven track record of inspiring awe and wonder, with previous installations like the Museum of the Moon and Gaia drawing millions worldwide. Helios continues this legacy, offering a unique chance to contemplate the Sun’s beauty and power in one of London’s most spectacular historical settings.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary blend of art and science—book your visit today at Old Royal Naval College.
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