Tinside Lido stars in national art event

Tinside Lido is featuring in a national work of art by 2004 Turner Prize winning artist Jeremy Deller - with tickets flying out of the box office, and a final batch released this Tuesday (June 24).

Called “Hello Sailor” it happens on Saturday July 5 - and starts with a procession from The Box museum to the seaside pool.

The event forms part of the National Gallery's bicentenary celebrations, with Deller touring the UK with a series of events called “The Triumph of Art”. It marks how festivals are part and parcel of art, culture and civic life, and celebrates the fact that art and artists can be catalysts of collaboration and joy.

‘Hello Sailor!’ will run from 4-7pm and will feature local people, synchronised swimmers and live music. Attendees will be able to go for a dip in the lido before they leave if they wish. They’ll also witness a surprise appearance from an ‘unclothed’ Plymouth icon whose mystery identity will only be revealed on the day.

Anyone who isn’t lucky enough to get tickets will be able to watch elements of the event from The Hoe. A celebration event featuring DJs from the day will take place at The Box afterwards and tickets for this are also now live on The Box’s website.

The wider 'The Triumph of Art' project culminates later in July when elements from 'Hello Sailor!' will combine with those from partners in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales for a procession along Whitehall in London and a free, family friendly celebration and performance-inspired event in Trafalgar Square on Saturday 26 July.

Councillor Jemima Laing said it was a “massive coup” for Plymouth to be hosting the event.

Tickets are free and are available on The Box website from midday on Tuesday June 24.