Followers of the @an_artnews Twitter feed have been sharing their thoughts on which British artist should feature on the new version of the English £20 note.
The banknote, which will enter circulation in the next three to five years, will feature someone who has made a significant contribution to the world of visual arts. Living people and fictional characters are barred, with the most popular nomination replacing economist Adam Smith on the £20 note.
Painters, sculptors, fashion designers, film directors, ceramicists or architects are all eligible. However, the Bank of England will be keen to avoid the accusations of gender bias made during a similar process in 2013, when Winston Churchill replaced Elizabeth Fry on the £5 note.
Following a call out on @an_artnews, there was strong support for female artists. @IngridPlum said: “FFS make it a woman! I would want Delia Derbyshire as a sound artist but that will never happen. How about Dame Laura Knight?” @Ruth_Dent tweeted support for Elisabeth Frink, whilst @wmwragg’s choice was Barbara Hepworth, as was @IShouldYoko.
Elsewhere, JMW Turner and William Blake were popular choices, with the former receiving nominations from @soundcube @AnnaDumitriu and @ed_saye. @Ellen_Forkin commented: “Turner, William Morris, Constable, Lowry…who could choose?! Just not Bacon. I’m scared of him!” @paulclements6 supported war artist Larry Burrows, tweeting: “He was the greatest war photographer of all time.”
Speaking at a launch at the V&A Museum in London last week, Bank of England governor Mark Carney said: “There are a wealth of individuals within the field of visual arts whose work shaped British thought, innovation, leadership, values and society and who continue to inspire people today. I greatly look forward to hearing from the public who they would like to celebrate.”
The final decision will be announced in spring 2016 with the new note expected to go into circulation by 2020.
