Libraries NI will exhibit a selection of artwork submitted by Belfast school children from 24th – 25th July as part of London 2012 Open Weekend, supported by BP – a series of events across the country enabling access to excellence in the arts, culture and sport and celebrating three years to go until the London 2012 Olympic Games.

The exhibition in Belfast Central Library will showcase posters designed by pupils from a selection of Belfast schools.  The artwork was submitted as part of a library competition launched last year under the title ‘Going for Gold’.  To view the exhibition visit Belfast Central Library on Friday 24th July between 9.00am and 5.30pm or Saturday 25th July between 9.00am and 4.30pm.

The London 2012 Open Weekend created by London 2012 is supported by BP, the Premier Partner of the Cultural Olympiad.  London 2012 Open Weekend will take place every year in July.

London 2012 Open Weekend enables everyone to share in the excitement of the Games, be inspired to get involved, unleash their creativity and try something new by accessing excellence at events across sport, art and culture.  Libraries NI joins hundreds of other London 2012 Open Weekend events – from family discover sports days and athletics opportunities to flower festivals and drawing classes, exploring museum archives and pottery, there is an opportunity for everyone.  Full listings, including the ‘Going for Gold’ exhibition, at www.london2012.com/openweekend.

“The Cultural Olympiad encourages audiences to take part, it involves and inspires young people, and will create a lasting legacy”, said Muriel Todd, Business Manager for Heritage with Libraries NI.

“Hundreds of events will be taking place across the country and we are sure that the creative talents of the young people of Northern Ireland will contribute to this unique marriage of sport, culture and the arts.”

London 2012 is the first Organising Committee to create such a wide platform of public participation in the Games, taking the values, ideals and benefits of the Games to people and communities like never before.  Opportunities such as London 2012 Open Weekend are encouraging participation and recognising the contribution people, places and projects are making to the success of the 2012 Games.  This year’s London 2012 Open Weekend follows the success of last year’s event, which launched the Cultural Olympiad and enabled over 700,000 people to become involved.