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Exhibition

Coalescence

PAST EXHIBITION | 9 Dec 2023 - 4 Feb 2024
Tickets: £ 15
Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

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This exhibition is no longer in the Painted Hall – Sign up to our newsletter and be the first to find out about upcoming exhibitions.

‘Truly jaw-dropping’ – The Arts Desk
‘A real marvel to see in person’ – Londonist
‘Spectacular’ – Greenwich Wire

Let your mind be illuminated by Coalescence, the stunning installation by designer Paul Cocksedge, making its London debut against the backdrop of the Painted Hall.

Made from over 2,500 pieces of coal – the amount consumed by a single 200W light bulb in a year – Coalescence is suspended in iconic Upper Hall of the Painted Hall, creating an intricate play of shadow and sparkle that draws on the lustrous quality of the anthracite, a form of high-carbon coal. This installation is captivating viewers while inviting them to question our relationship with, and dependence on fossil fuels.

Also on display in the adjacent Nelson Room, is a new artwork, 20 Trees, which subtly conveys a message about ecological balance by blending mathematical calculations with dwindling natural resources.

Each work stands as a reminder of the critical relationship between human actions and environmental stability, and together, they encourage visitors to contemplate our relationship with the natural world.

What’s included my ticket? 

Entry to see Coalescence also includes access to the Skittle Alley, all our tours – including 600 years of history tours, Blockbuster Film Tours and Painted Hall talks – as well as use of our multimedia guides. Find out more about what’s here and plan your visit.

Annual Pass
Convert your Coalescence ticket into an Annual Pass for no extra cost and you can visit for free all year.

Simply convert any adult, concession* or ArtPass ticket into an Annual Pass by asking at the ticket desk or via the QR code given on arrival and you’ll have access to the Painted Hall, exhibitions, tours, Discover Greenwich and more for 12 months at no extra cost.

*Excluding Universal Credit and First Sunday tickets. General Admission tickets bought from third-party websites or resellers are not eligible to be converted into an Annual Pass.

Existing Annual Pass holders
If you have an existing Annual Pass you will be able to visit Coalescence for free with no advance booking required. This is subject to availability.

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Paul Cocksedge Studio – Coalescence – The Painted Hall

About Paul Cocksedge

Paul Cocksedge Studio is an interdisciplinary studio co-founded by Paul Cocksedge and Joana Pinho. The artist and designer is known for his unorthodox approach to materials in works that span public art, sculpture and architectural installation.

Science is an ever-present anchor for these works, and a forensic investigation into the limitations of processes, materials, and the human body lays the foundations for everything. Cocksedge is enduringly curious about our relationship to the Earth, and his works address pressing issues of our time, from social connection to fossil fuel.

Website: www.paulcocksedgestudio.com
Instagram: @paulcocksedge

Programme

Social Media Mondays
Every Monday | 10.15am – 11.15am
To better facilitate those looking for the perfect shot, the Social Media ticket has reduced capacity. Posing and selfies are encouraged! Use the hashtag #CoalescenceLondon for a chance to be featured on our socials. Book now.

Quiet Hour Tuesdays
Every Tuesday | 10.15am – 11.15am
This session is intended for those that want to appreciate the space in a more relaxed environment with a reduced number of visitors. This 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. Book now.

Yoga and Brunch
Sun 28 Jan | 8.30am – 10am
Take part in an energising 75-minute Mandala Vinyasa yoga under Coalescence, followed by a delicious and healthy brunch in the Undercroft Café. Book now.

Coalescence Closing Fine Dining Soiree
Sat 3 Feb | 7pm – 10.30pm
Join us in the breathtaking Painted Hall on the closing weekend of Coalescence for an unforgettable dining experience with guest chef Anthony Demetre, chef patron of Michelin-starred restaurant Wild Honey St James. Book now.

Photography & filming

We encourage visitors to share their experience. Photography and filming is allowed for personal, non commercial purposes only. The use of tripods is prohibited. Please read our Photography & Filming Guidelines for more information.

Coalescence in the Painted Hall

Navigate this page to learn more about the artwork, and the history of coal in Britain and Greenwich.

Find out more