Gloucester Cathedral is playing host to another astronomical art installation from artist Luke Jerram, with 'Mars: War and Peace' coming to the cathedral this October 2024.
A seven-metre sculpture of Mars will be suspended, seemingly in mid-air, above the nave, with its dramatic architecture providing the ultimate backdrop for the majestic red planet.
Visitors will be able to see the surface of Mars in incredible detail, thanks to NASA imagery, accompanied by an immersive soundtrack from award-winning composer, Dan Jones, highlighting the impact armed conflict has on our own world.
The installation is free to visit during the cathedral's daytime opening hours — but there is also a series of ticketed 'after dark' events where visitors can enjoy the exhibition at night for an especially atmospheric experience.
'After dark' events are taking place from 6pm to 9pm on Saturday 19, Friday 25, Saturday 26, Wednesday 30, Thursday 31 October, Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November 2024 — with tickets costing from £7 for adults and £3 for children.
There are a host of other exciting activities accompanying the exhibition, too.
Ideal for families, there's a free Mars Family Quest — a themed trail around the cathedral — throughout the exhibition; and a family-friendly evening of stargazing out on Cathedral Green on Friday 1 November 2024, with telescopes to observe the night sky and free space-themed crafts to try.
Active adults can enjoy a unique experience with sunrise yoga on Saturday 19 October or sunset yoga on Wednesday 16 and 23 October 2024 undeneath the red planet for £15 per session.
Then for classical music fans, Gloucester Cathedral is hosting a special 150th anniversary performance of the 'Planets Suite' by Cheltenham-born composer, Gustav Holst, on Saturday 12 October 2024 — with tickets costing from £20 each.
Mars is the third celestial body that artist Luke Jerram has brought to the iconic Gloucestershire landmark, following 'Museum of the Moon' in 2019 and 'Gaia' in 2020.
Dean of Gloucester, the very reverend Andrew Zihni, said: 'As this timely exhibition graces our sacred space, it not only reminds us of the beauty and mystery of God’s universe, but also provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the enduring hope for peace.
'In the presence of this remarkable sculpture, we hope visitors will find the space to contemplate the injustices that are present all around us. We hope this artwork can help us in our Christian mission to work tirelessly for a just future for our communities and for the world.'
'Mars: War and Peace' is open from Tuesday 15 October until Sunday 3 November 2024.
For more information, see 'Mars: War and Peace' at Gloucester Cathedral.
