Helios Art Installation at Ickworth (2nd-5th May)
Join us at Ickworth as we display Helios, a new artwork of the sun by Luke Jerram. This seven-metre sculpture combines solar imagery, light and sound to highlight the sun's intricate details.
- Booking advisable
- Free event (admission applies)
Ickworth was built as a home of great art and it was the Earl Bishop's vision to bring contemporary art to the estate for all to see. Join us as we continue his legacy.
Named after the ancient Greek god of the sun, Helios offers a detailed view of the star, including rare features like sunspots. The sculpture is scaled so that each centimetre represents 2,000 kilometres of the real sun's surface.
Along with its glowing light, Helios includes a soundscape featuring NASA recordings of the sun, by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson. Together, the light and sound create a unique and immersive experience, inviting us to explore the sun's hidden beauty and power up close.
Helios has been co-commissioned by National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Booking details
Call 0344 249 1895
- Suitability
Children are welcome. Under 5s go free and do not need a booking.
- Meeting point
The installation will be displayed outside, in front of the Rotunda. There will be a short, one-way route to see the installation. Please follow all directions or signage.
- What to bring and wear
The installation is outside so prepare for all weathers.
- Accessibility
The route is a short walk across gravel so some manual wheelchairs may find this challenging. There is very little incline to manage. We have four mobility scooters which can be pre-booked before the day.
- Other
To ensure the safety of the artwork and the public, if wind speeds are forecast to exceed 23mph, the artwork will be temporarily taken down and will not be accessible to visitors. If we know that wind speeds are going to be high, we will do our best to inform you the day before your visit, however, we recommend that you check our website for the latest information before travelling. Your time slot is entry to the estate, please arrive within your half an hour time slot.
Upcoming events
An Introduction to Ickworth Tour
Join the team caring for Ickworth's treasures to discover more about the Hervey family and their collection.
Ickworth on the World Stage
Follow one family's unconventional adventures as Ickworth sets sail with the Herveys in 2025.
A Conservation Tour
Take a step behind closed doors in the Rotunda to see Ickworth through the eyes of our Collections Team.
A Life Below Stairs Tour
Hear the stories of the servants who lived and worked at Ickworth as you discover the hustle and bustle that went on below stairs.