Giant glowing sun sculpture goes on show in city

A five metre wide illuminated sculpture of the sun has gone on free public display in Birmingham city centre.

Helios by British artist Luke Jerram is now on show at The Exchange, run by the University of Birmingham.

The large scale installation uses detailed solar imagery to recreate the surface of the sun, showing features such as sunspots and solar flares. The sculpture is lit from within, casting a glow across the venue's Banking Hall.

It forms part of a wider exhibition called Seeing the Sun, which will run until 1 November 2026.

Cassie Chadderton, from the university, said the installation offered visitors a unique way to explore science through art.

She said the work brought the two disciplines together "in an awe inspiring, beautiful form" and invited people to discover more about the sun and research taking place in Birmingham.

"It is a five meter in diameter, illuminated sculpture of the sun put together with solar imagery.

"You can see all the activity of the sun that we'll never have an experience to see up close with our own eyes.

"It depicts sun spots, solar flares. It's moving and an incredibly engaging way to think about what the sun means to us all," she said.

Visitors will also be able to explore exhibits highlighting climate and space research and meet scientists involved in the work. A programme of events linked to the installation includes talks, workshops and accessible tours.

A free family day is due to take place on 21 March, featuring activities for children including creative sessions and opportunities to learn about solar science.

The university has confirmed it has permanently acquired the sculpture, which will move to its Edgbaston campus after the exhibition ends.

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