Luke Jerram’s out-of-this-world installation lands in Greenwich in November
Make it your mission to see Luke Jerram’s “Mars” installation when it lands at the Old Royal Naval College this November.
Following the success of Jerram’s works “Gaia” and “The Museum of the Moon”, Mars will complete the trilogy of his out-of-this-world installations at Greenwich’s Old Royal Naval College.
Visitors are invited to be awed by the spectacle of the Red Planet from Sunday 24 November 2024 to Tuesday 28 January 2025, where you will find the planet has been recreated to scale and installed against the backdrop of the Painted Hall, which is often referred to as “Britain’s Sistine Chapel”. The pairing brings two works of art together, merging science with history and myth.
Measuring seven metres in diameter, the artwork features detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface – about one million times smaller than the actual planet.
The internally lit artwork transports us to Mars; the closest planet to Earth, which can often be seen in the night sky.
The installation will feature a surround sound composition by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones, including clips from NASA missions to Mars, totally immersing you in the experience.
Jerram says: “Mars follows on from my other astronomical artworks presented in the awe-inspiring Painted Hall and allows a close encounter with the Martian planet. I hope that visitors will feel transported to its inhospitable desert wasteland and, in comparison, really value our life on Earth.”
Matthew Mees, chief executive of the Old Royal Naval College, says: “We are thrilled to present this beautiful and atmospheric work of art in our iconic space. Luke Jerram’s Mars will provide an immersive experience, sparking curiosity and wonder about our universe while highlighting the artistic and historical significance of the Painted Hall.”
You can book for Social Media Mondays, to better facilitate those looking for the perfect shot, and Quiet Hour Fridays, intended for those who want to appreciate the space in a more relaxed environment with a reduced number of visitors. The Quiet Hour session is primarily for, but not limited to, neurodiverse adults and children, and any other visitors with sensory needs who may prefer a more relaxed experience.
Alongside the installation will be Mars-themed events, too. You can Party Under Mars with a special DJ and Silent Disco event on Saturday 30 November. Explore space and popular culture through music in this special out-of-hours event.
For a more relaxed experience, go on a Sound Journey Through Mars with Lie Down and Listen events on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December. You will be able to immerse yourself in the experience of quantum listening, and contemplate humanity’s future from a deeply personal, introspective perspective – all while remaining grounded here on Earth.
Tickets: £16.50
Old Royal Naval College, SE10 9NN
