Between Thursday 31 July – 3 August and 7 – 10 August, a stunning new art installation will go on display at Coventry Charterhouse during its UK tour of iconic National Trust places and partner locations.  

Helios, is the latest work in artist Luke Jerram’s impressive series, succeeding previous large-scale installations, Museum of the Moon and Gaia. Named after the sun god in ancient Greek mythology, Helios is a seven-metre spherical sculpture that combines light, solar imagery and sounds recorded by NASA to bring the sun’s intricate details into a new light. 

Helios’ arrival at the Charterhouse this July will mark its first visit to Coventry. Suspended within the walled garden of the former 14th century monastery, Helios will make a stunning sight.  

Luke’s innovative installation is lit from within and its detailed surface incorporates solar imagery of sunspots, spicules and filaments. One centimetre of the sculpture represents 2000km of the sun’s actual surface. Together with the soundscape created from NASA recordings by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson, this immersive experience will allow visitors to explore the intricacies, power and scale of the sun’s surface in a way not previously seen. 

Pearl Chesterman, Programming and Partnerships Officer at Coventry Charterhouse, said: “Coventry Charterhouse is already a place where history, nature and creativity meet, and Helios adds a powerful new layer to that. Seeing the sun in this unique setting, just beyond Coventry’s city centre, will offer an unforgettable experience.” 

Kristenne Pickles, Property Operations Manager at Coventry Charterhouse, said: “We're thrilled to welcome Helios to Coventry Charterhouse this summer. As a former Carthusian monastery, it’s the perfect backdrop for an artwork that invites reflection and wonder. We hope visitors of all ages will come and see this extraordinary sculpture, explore the garden and enjoy everything this special place has to offer.”  

“Helios feels especially fitting here at Coventry Charterhouse, a place long shaped by light, reflection and care. Hosting this inspiring artwork is part of our wider mission to open up nature, beauty and history to everyone.”

Visitors will be able to view Helios from all angles as it is suspended in the garden of the Charterhouse. The installation will be accessible, with a step-free route leading in front and directly underneath the giant sculpture for a close-up look at the surface of the sun.   

Helios artist Luke 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.  

“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.” 

Helios has been co-commissioned by the National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London, and continues a long legacy at the National Trust of presenting new and historic art to visitors. 

Helios opens at Coventry Charterhouse on Thursday 31 July. Daytime entry is included with standard admission (free for National Trust members). Visitors can also enjoy exclusive evening viewings on 1, 2, 8 and 9 August, to experience the glowing sun sculpture as daylight fades. Tickets for evening sessions are available to pre-book via the National Trust website and early booking is recommended.  

Image courtesy of Arnhel de Serra, taken at Osterley Park & House in June