By Victoria Huntley TURNER Prize-winner Martin Creed wants to design a new Olympic bell to be rung at the ceremonies during 2012 Games. The idea has got him shortlisted for a �500,000 Arts
TURNER Prize-winner Martin Creed wants to design a new Olympic bell to be rung at the ceremonies during 2012 Games.
The idea has got him shortlisted for a �500,000 Arts Council grant.
He would use the cash to get the bell cast at the famous Whitechapel bell foundry-and would celebrate by getting Cockneys all over East London to ring their own bells to signal the start of the Olympics.
Martin wants East Enders to ring any bell they can find, from bicycle bells to church bells, as quickly and loudly as possible for three minutes when the Games open.
STREET CORNER
His Big Ring’ project would involve thousands of people ringing bells on every street corner and welcoming the Olympics to East London, if he is awarded the grant.
He is one of five artists shortlisted to compete for the Cultural Olympiad’ commission, with the winner getting the cash to create their artistic vision.
Projects range from works celebrating London's famous transport network and historic buildings to mass participation ideas like Martin's.
The shortlisted artists, including musician Nitin Sawhney and celebrity blogger Alfie Dennen, each now receive a development grant up to �5,000 to turn their ideas into comprehensive plans. The final commission will be decided in October.
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