Unparalleled joy comes to North East

The North East has been set alight with news that the Turner Prize will be held in Teesside next year in the Middlesborough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA). This celebration of Any Old Rubbish spreads growth, opportunity and fortune wherever it goes – or so you would believe reading the local mayors’ reponses:

‘Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “The announcement of the Turner Prize in Middlesbrough is a major coup which underlines our commitment to building this sector – one that plays an important role in driving economic growth.
"An event of this stature bolsters our growing reputation for attracting major UK events to Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool. Bringing the Turner Prize here will bring investment, visitors, and opportunity – supporting our drive to transform our region.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “Hosting the Turner Prize is a massive win for Middlesbrough.
“We’ve been working hard on a mission to be the Most Creative Town and welcoming new visitors will help us change perceptions and highlight the brilliant things that happen here every day.
“We’re thrilled to be supporting MIMA and Teesside University in putting on a show that will attract headlines around the arts world.”’

A consensus! The arts are good for the economy! Rachel Reeves take note: even crap art generates growth. Just think what good art would do for the economy. So no more cuts please.
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(And note to MIMA: How about holding a post-grad degree show from 2020, aborted due to Covid. I know for sure that there would be some exceptionally brilliant pieces on display)