Tuesday 25 May 2010, 18.30–20.00

To mark the Fourth Plinth Commission, Nelson's Ship in a Bottle, by Anglo-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare MBE, this panel discussion explores the legacy and impact of multiculturalism in the context of the arts in Britain today.

Yinka Shonibare says his piece will reflect the story of multiculturalism in London "honouring the many cultures and ethnicities that are still breathing precious wind into the sails of the United Kingdom". Multiculturalism and its many legacies is a contested concept.

For some it celebrates and encourages diversity and the positive impact of migration on the British landscape. For others, multiculturalism causes cultural division and has even played a part in the development of home grown terrorism.

The panel will consider these difficult questions about the legacies of multiculturalism within the field of art and culture:

• What role should public institutions play in fostering Britishness and national identity?
• Can great art promote cultural wellbeing and a sense of integration in the public sphere?
• Is multiculturalism a spent force that promotes cultural disharmony?
• What does it mean to be British in the 21st century?

Chaired by Kwame Kwei-Armah (Playwright, broadcaster, actor).

Distinguished panelists include: Yinka Shonibare MBE (artist), Munira Mirza (Mayor's Director of Arts and Cultural Policy for London), Yasmin Alibhai-Brown (Columnist, writer and cultural commentator) and Matthew Taylor (Director of Royal Society of Arts).

Tate Britain  Clore Auditorium
£5 (£3 concessions), booking recommended