White flag flying at half mast in London?

[annavc]

Not sure this is the right section really but hoping someone will know.

I noticed this morning as my train came over Hungerford Bridge into Charing Cross that there is a large completely white flag flying at half mast from the flag pole by the river between Hungerford Bridge and the London Eye.

Does anyone know what its for? It struck me as being very odd.

[Octavius]

THE HAYWARD FLAG PROJECT From January 2007, The Hayward is commissioning a series of flags that will fly from the 100-foot high flagpole at the edge of Jubilee Gardens, opposite the Houses of Parliament. The project offers artists from around the world a chance to stimulate ideas and provoke reflection on a variety of issues, ranging from patriotism and national identity to pageantry and celebration.

Yinka Shonibare has created the first flag, which questions the world�s current attitude towards peace. His plain white flag is a symbol of both peace and surrender, but, hung at half-mast, it suggests a peace that is either not yet fully recognised, or in a state of mourning.

Approximately four flags will be produced each year, and the raising of each new flag will include an accompanying performance that incorporates music, speeches, parades and poetry.

[Octavius]

http://www.london-se1.co.uk/news/view/2613

No doubt Tracy Emins one will be a dirty bedsheet.

[annavc]

Thanks Octavius that's really interesting I had no idea that was going on. Its probably been there a while as well which just shows how awake I usually am on the train!

I'd disagree with their description of it being opposite the House of Parliament - its not. Its opposite the MoD! Would need to be the other side of the Eye and Westminster Bridge to be opposite the HofP! But that's just me being pedantic!

[Loosehead]

It's the new French flag isn't it? White cross on a white background!

[jollygreen]

Loosehead, you beat me to it... I was going to suggest it was maybe the new French Embassy.

And di you know that the Red and Blue bands on the french flag are actually made of velcro for time of war?

[Titan Films]

Regarding this white flag. I heard a review about the work on radio four (front row I think) I have tried desperatly to track down a listen to previous broadcast without success.

The flag was unveiled to a piece of classical music. Trumpet and strings. Does anyone know what the piece was called? I have heard of the composer but he and title have both slipped my memory.

Thanks