From March to November 2026, The Exchange will host Helios, a breathtaking, large-scale illuminated sculpture by acclaimed British artist Luke Jerram.

An edition of his celebrated international touring artwork of the same name, this smaller version will hang high at The Exchange’s Banking Hall, offering guests an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Using high-resolution (72dpi) photographic solar imagery, the sculpture reveals the astonishing details of the Sun's surface, from swirling sunspots to dramatic solar flares, all illuminated from within to cast a golden glow across the Banking Hall.

Measuring five metres in diameter, the artwork is 278 million times smaller than the actual Sun, with each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture representing 2780km of the Sun’s surface. At this scale planet Earth, in comparison to this sculpture of the Sun, would be 46mm across - about the size of a golf ball.

The striking sculpture will also be enhanced by a specially created surround sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.

To accompany the artwork, a wrap-around exhibition will showcase climate change and space research from leading scientists and academics at the University of Birmingham. Taking visitors on a journey from the depths of space, through our atmosphere, to the people, places, and creatures the Sun sustains, the exhibition highlights how seeing the Sun is central to understanding our planet’s past, present, and future.

The Exchange will also host an eight-month public programme of events responding to the sculpture, due to be announced in Spring 2026.

Luke Jerram’s multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live art projects. Living in the UK but working internationally since 1997, Luke has created a number of extraordinary art projects which have excited and inspired people around the world. His artworks often combine arts, science and engineering, with many of his latest works, including Gaia, Oil Fountain, Inhale, and Tipping Point, drawing attention to planetary health.  

The University of Birmingham has acquired Helios, which will be officially open to the public at The Exchange in Centenary Square from 20 March to coincide with the Spring Equinox. Helios will move to long-term display at the Edgbaston campus following its time at The Exchange. It will continue to be free and accessible for all to enjoy.

You can find more information about the sculpture and exhibition on the University of Birmingham website.