Liverpool Cathedral is preparing to shine brighter than ever with the arrival of Helios, the latest artwork by renowned British artist Luke Jerram. From 4th April to 9th May 2025, visitors will have the chance to experience this breathtaking, illuminated sculpture of the sun, accompanied by a specially commissioned surround sound composition.
Measuring seven meters in diameter, Helios offers a detailed, up-close view of the sun, using high-resolution imagery at a scale of 1:200 million. The artwork captures the surface’s dynamic textures, from sunspots and filaments to the origins of solar flares—some of which led to the recent stunning displays of the Northern Lights over the UK.
Building on the success of previous installations, including Museum of the Moon and Gaia, Liverpool Cathedral is excited to have hosted all three celestial artworks. As an iconic place of worship and culture, the Cathedral continues to welcome visitors for moments of wonder, reflection, and inspiration.
Special Programme of Events
To complement Helios, Liverpool Cathedral has curated a diverse programme of exciting and immersive events, offering visitors the chance to experience the installation in unique and meaningful ways.
From sunrise yoga beneath the glowing light of Helios to enchanting storytelling sessions designed to captivate young minds, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can take part in interactive workshops and creative activities, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can attend Quiet Hour; a sensory-friendly session with reduced capacity.
For the night owls, Liverpool Cathedral will be open later than usual on select evenings, giving visitors the chance to experience the installation after dark. These extended opening hours mean that the entire Cathedral—including the Tower, shop, and Welsford Bistro—will remain open late. Entry is completely free and no tickets are needed, allowing everyone to soak in the stunning visuals of Helios at their own pace. There will also be an opportunity to unwind and take in the spectacle in a more intimate setting with Cathedral Lates, a series of ticketed events which will feature live music performed near the artwork, with a refreshing drink upon arrival.
Food lovers can indulge in a luxurious fine dining experience crafted by the Welsford Bistro, where a specially curated three-course menu will be served beneath the golden glow of Helios, complete with a glass of prosecco on arrival.
This year’s Cathedral Sleepout, in partnershipwith The Whitechapel Centre, will allow attendees to sleep overnight around Helios and raise money for the most vulnerable people in our city, including those experiencing homelessness. Through this unique experience, local families can raise vital funds to support the The Whitechapel Centre and Liverpool Cathedral.
Luke Jerram has shared the following:
‘Helios acts as a venue, enabling hosts to create their own programme of sun inspired events and activities to take place beneath it. I hope that Liverpool Cathedral’s exciting programme of events will bring together people of all ages, religions and backgrounds in celebration and reflection’.
The full Helios event programme, including ticket information, can be found on the Cathedral website. With such a range of offerings, there really is something for everybody this spring at Liverpool Cathedral.
Visitors can experience Helios from 4th April to 9th May 2025, with the artwork temporarily removed for Holy Week services on 18th April before returning for the Easter Sunday sunrise service on 20th April at 5:30 am. Helios is free to enter during the Cathedral opening hours and no tickets are needed for entry.
The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, shared her excitement about bringing Helios to the city:
“Helios is a stunning celebration of the sun’s life-giving power and its significance across cultures and faiths. Having this artwork in the Cathedral, especially during the Easter period, gives us a chance to reflect on themes of light and resurrection. We are delighted to welcome everyone to experience this incredible installation in our magnificent space.”
For more information, head to the cathedral website.
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