A stunning sculpture of the sun to go on display at Victoria Baths

A huge, stunning sculpture of the sun is set to go on display at Victoria Baths next spring.

Helios has been created by internationally acclaimed artist Luke Jerram. Measuring seven metres in diameter, the work presents the Sun in astonishing detail, using imagery captured by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory.

Internally lit and suspended, the sculpture reveals the Sun’s swirling patterns, sunspots and solar flares, using Victoria Bath’s historic Edwardian stained glass windows and tiles as its backdrop.

A specially commissioned sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson will also surround visitors in a rich, immersive atmosphere inspired by the rhythms and energy of solar activity.

The striking installation will be accompanied by Everything Under the Sun, an ambitious events programme designed to showcase a diverse range of performances and experiences. The full programme line-up will be announced in the coming months, promising an exciting month of cultural engagement at one of Manchester’s most iconic venues.

Victoria Baths’ CEO, Anthony Baker, says: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming audiences to experience Helios here at Victoria Baths. Luke’s masterpiece invites us to look again at something we all depend on but rarely stop to notice – the Sun. Within Victoria Baths it becomes both a source of wonder and reflection and we can’t wait to share this with our local community. Presenting Helios at Victoria Baths is the beginning of a new series of cultural and creative activities which will open up the Baths to a whole new audience.”

Helios will be on display at Victoria Baths from Tue 17 Mar – Mon 6 Apr. You can book tickets now.