We believe the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games offer an unprecedented opportunity to reinforce the UK’s reputation as a world leader in culture.

The Cultural Olympiad leading up to the Games will represent the very best of British talent, celebrating imagination and creativity, innovation and excellence.

We believe it will offer new opportunities to engage more people in more places with the arts, creating a cultural legacy that will last long after the closing ceremony.

We are directing our investment in a number of ways to try and ensure that these things happen:

Read Arts Council England's vision for the Cultural Olympiad and beyond to find out more.

Further opportunities

Artists or arts organisations may want to apply to be considered for the ‘Inspired by London 2012’ brand. Creative Programmers can provide support and advice on the application process. Find their contact details on the London 2012 website for further information.

We are co-funders of this network of eight Creative Programmers, working in the English regions outside London to ensure each part of the country is reflected and involved in the Cultural Olympiad. They are the first point of contact for any artists or organisations wishing to get involved in London 2012, and can be contacted through www.london2012.com/culture.

We have also committed funds to help develop an International Festival for London in 2012. This is in the early stage of planning, but will be developed in close collaboration with many of our regularly funded organisations. It will celebrate the world class talent we have here in the UK, and provide an opportunity for international collaboration. Further information will be announced shortly.

Our vision for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012

  • a vibrant environment in which UK artists can express and fulfil their creative potential - highlighting the diversity that enriches our culture
  • a celebration of imagination and creativity that inspires individuals and communities to take part in the arts, maximising cultural benefits and raising the aspirations of young people for years to come
  • a unique opportunity to reinforce the UK’s reputation as a world leader in culture

Contacts

For enquiries about our work towards the 2012 Cultural Olympiad, please email vision2012@artscouncil.org.uk

For media enquiries, please contact Sophie Woodward on 020 7608 4149 or sophie.woodward@artscouncil.org.uk