How did artists apply for the commissions?
The project was launched on 19 March 2009 with a call to artists to write 400 words describing their big idea for the commissions. They submitted this online at www.artiststakingthelead.org.uk, and were also able to submit up to five images and/or three minutes of film or audio to support their idea. The application stage was open until 29 May 2009, in which time we received 2,163 ideas from artists across the UK.
Who chose the winning commissions?
Independent panels of artist advisors were formed in each of the UK’s nations and regions to judge the submitted ideas. They are made up of artists and producers with a wide range of experience in producing work and delivering large scale commissions. They were joined by an Arts Council representative, the regional or national Creative Programmer, and in some cases a young advisor to provide a breadth of views and experience.
What was the judging process?
Panels were asked to use their knowledge, expertise and judgment to respond to each submission and reach agreement as a group on which ideas should be put forward for the shortlist, and ultimately the winning commission.
They considered the ideas in two stages –
1 the strength of the idea
2 the idea’s potential to meet the four core aims of the project -
a. Original ideas for projects in any artform, led by artists
b. Projects that reflect and are inspired by the location in which they will take shape
c. Projects which will be completed by June 2012, but also show a legacy for artists and communities beyond 2012
d. Projects that celebrate London 2012 and reflect the values and vision of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games
How did they choose the winning commissions?
Each shortlisted artist was asked to deliver a presentation to their panel and provide a project plan and comprehensive budget. The panels used all this information to make its final recommendation. They were looking for the idea that best demonstrated the strength of the nation’s creativity, that highlighted unique characteristics of the nation or region and that celebrated the spirit and values of London 2012.
How much money will the winning artists receive?
The value of the commissions awarded to the chosen artists will be:
* Nine English regions Up to £500,000 each
* Northern Ireland £190,000
* Scotland £460,000
* Wales £230,000
What’s the overall vision for the twelve commissions?
Our panels of artists and producers were tasked with selecting the strongest ideas for their nation or region from the shortlists. We have taken no national curatorial role as we believe Artists taking the lead should be led by artists, and we’re really excited by the range and diversity of the winning projects.
How do these projects celebrate the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games?
The panels were looking for the best ideas to celebrate London 2012 in their region. There was no requirement for projects to be sport themed, but that they should celebrate London 2012 and meet the values of the Cultural Olympiad, which include:
* Celebrating London and the UK and inviting the world to share the event with us
* Inspiring and involving young people to unlock their creativity
* Using cultural and sports participation, audience development, and other key strands of the Cultural Olympiad to build a meaningful legacy
Each of the winning projects has responded to this brief in a different and original way. These 12 commissions will mark the moment of 2012 with extraordinary work echoing the epic nature of the Olympic movement and providing the opportunity for the nation to engage with inspiring work in new and unexpected ways.
What will be the benefit of these projects?
We set out to find a range of exceptional ideas to celebrate London 2012 across the UK. The nation’s artists have responded to this brief in varied and creative ways, which will impact their regions in different ways, but all will ultimately aim to bring people together through high quality, creative work, to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Games
Where has the money coming from?
Arts Council England is investing £6 million in Grant in aid to Artists taking the lead. The funds come from Managed Funds – strategic funds which allow the Arts Council to identify new opportunities for the arts, take new initiatives, establish new partnerships and address particular ambitions for growth.
In addition the Arts Council of Northern Ireland has invested £200,000, the Scottish Arts Council has invested £500,000, and the Arts Council of Wales has invested £250,000, all from Lottery funds, towards their own national commissions and their development.
Has Arts Council England money been taken away from arts organisations in order to pay for this?
No, our regularly funded arts organisations and Grants for the arts are funded by separate budgets. The funds supporting Artists taking the lead are strategic funds which allow us to identify new opportunities for the arts, and we felt that supporting the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad was an opportunity not to be missed – it will showcase the nation’s creative vision and talent on the world stage.
Further questions? Email sophie.woodward@artscouncil.org.uk