Seven figures from public life - among them Samantha Cameron, Lord Mandleson, MI6 chief Sir John Sawers and former Labour Cabinet minister Lord Boateng - have been asked to curate the first tranche of works.
Today we provide the chance to answer in the Whitehall riddle for yourself. And in case the tension is too much we've included the answers - some of which may prove distinctly surprising.
First that Queen. She is of course Elizabeth I, but the artist is unknown.
The political figure who chose it has been sometimes accused of being too fond of absolute power - suffice to say that while Elizabeth had "the body of a week and feeble woman", but "the heart of a man", this guest curator was more of a fighter than a quitter.
And her successor Elizabeth II is selected too, in a photograph of Lucien Freud at work painting his portrait of her.
This work was chosen by two separate politicians - neither of whom are ever likely to kiss hands with the Queen, even if both have dreamed of it.
Tea, a painting depicting a thermos flask and a mug by David Tindle, may only fuel jokes about empty vessels.
What to make of the abstract series of stripes chosen by one curator? The answer may prove to be an enigma.
The Lowry, Lancashire Fair: Good Friday, daisy Nook, has already hung in Harold Wilson and Margaret Thatcher's private quarters: it was selected by someone whose taste in interior design is much remarked on.
The collection aims to "promote Britain and reflect its history" and supplies art for around 400 embassies and government buildings in Britain and around the world.
Penny Johnson, the director of the GAC, said: "The collection is so rich, with such a huge range of different subjects and styles.
"The works certainly promote British art around the world, but they can also act as important icebreakers or conversation starters."
Condoleezza Rice Bill Richardson Mitt Romney Karl Rove Rick Santorum
No comments:
Post a Comment