Mayor of London Boris Johnston has given his support to BT’s new ‘Artbox’ project, which will be taking place around London this summer.
The open-air exhibition in acknowledgement of BT’s close relationship with ChildLine will feature leading artists and designers using their skills to turn replicas of the iconic UK red telephone box into innovative artworks.
BT participation in raising money for ChildLine is nothing new, as their employees have embraced their company relationship with the charity. Thousands of employees become ChildLine fundraisers each year.
Suzi Williams, director of BT Group Marketing and Brand, said:
"BT has a history of supporting British cultural initiatives and 2012 is no exception. What better way to celebrate ChildLine’s 25th anniversary than transforming replicas of the classic red phone box into a public art exhibition that can be enjoyed by all in the build-up to the Games this summer."
Those involved in the project are excited to be celebrating the work of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. He is the renowned designer of the red telephone box, Liverpool Cathedral, and Battersea Power Station.
Sandy Nairne, director of the National Portrait Gallery and patron of the BT ArtBox project, said:
"The Gilbert Scott telephone box is a truly iconic British design, and I’m looking forward to seeing how artists and designers transform the replica boxes into works of art on London’s streets."
The art event already boasts participating artists like Romero Britto, David Mach, 2002 Turner prize winner Keith Tyson and fashion designers Zandra Rhodes and Giles Deacon.
Esther Rantzen OBE, founder of ChildLine and patron of the BT ArtBox project is pleased that the anniversary of ChildLine is being celebrated by a project like BT Artbox.
"It’s fantastic that the proceeds from the sale of the boxes will raise vital funds to support the work of ChildLine, enabling us to help many more children and young people to get comfort advice and protection when they need it most."
