Culture Minister David Lammy, pictured here at an earlier event, is chair of the new forum. Photo 24 HM
Leading figures from the arts and creative industries have pledged their support to the development of a ‘Cultural Olympics’ in the run-up to the 2012 London games.
At the first meeting of the government’s new Culture and Creativity Advisory Forum for the Cultural Olympiad on July 25 2006, members agreed that the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics are a unique opportunity to showcase Britain’s arts and creativity and to encourage participation by people across the UK.
“We will be able to show the world the very best that we have to offer and reflect the world in Britain,” said Sir Nicholas Serota, Tate Director.
“We can use the cultural programme to take the Olympic message and values to people throughout the country, create new opportunities for children, young people and communities to enjoy and participate in cultural and creative activities and leave a lasting cultural legacy,” he added.
The Forum members warned the government that speedy action was needed to ensure the success of the Cultural Olympiad, however.
Britain's cultural diversity and venues will be on the world stage during the 2012 Olympics
“We need to start planning for this now,” said Sir Nicholas. “The government must take the lead in developing a vision of what the cultural programme will be and what it will aim to achieve, and setting a framework within which we can all work to make the 2012 Cultural Olympiad the best ever.”
Culture Minister David Lammy, who chairs the Forum, said: “We recognise the need to start preparing now and we do not underestimate the challenges ahead if we are to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“Over the coming months we will work with the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, the GLA and Mayor of London’s Office and people from across the cultural and creative sectors to develop a vision and a framework for the Cultural Olympiad.”
The Culture and Creativity Advisory Forum was announced by Tessa Jowell, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, in April 2006. It aims to advise and support the government in developing the cultural programme for the 2012 Olympics and ensuring a lasting cultural legacy.
