Coalescence, created by Paul Cocksedge, is a visual representation of the amount of coal required to power a single light bulb for a year. The installation, which is free to view, runs from 9 February-12 March.

Thousands of pieces of coal are suspended from the ceiling at Liverpool Cathedral as part of a monumental artwork, created by internationally acclaimed British designer Paul Cocksedge. The ‘Coalescence’ art installation, which makes its world debut at Liverpool Cathedral, opens 9 February and runs until 12 March.

Spanning six metres in diameter, the thought-provoking artwork is made up of over half a tonne of coal, creating a visual representation of how much power it takes to keep a single 200w light bulb switched on for a year.

‘Coalescence’ has been crafted using anthracite, a type of coal with a high lustre, which reflects the light, sparkling with unexpected beauty as it hangs from the vast Gothic ceiling of the magnificent Grade I listed building.

The material has been specially sourced from one of the last remaining coal mines in the UK with each individual piece being hand-drilled and carefully arranged to create the visually arresting suspended sculpture.

Prompting questions around energy consumption, the history of fossil fuels and the need to reach net zero, ‘Coalescence’ connects to a wider conversation about where energy comes from, how it is sourced and what it costs. Challenging the perception that all coal is dirty and polluting, the installation also explores the beauty and value of different types of materials.

Event Date: Thursday 9th February 2023 - Sunday 12th March 2023

Location: St James Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ

Categories: Accessible Event | For Children | Liverpool

Contact Details: Liverpool Cathedral

Subscribe to our mailing list