So, I went. I saw. I got nervous. I stood. I painted one of the worst portraits of my life. But it really doesn't matter. The fact that I did it is what counts. It was simultaneously frightening, exhilarating and utterly utterly wonderful.
The view of the Plinth from the One & Other officeI can't praise the One & Other team highly enough. From the moment I arrived at 5.30pm until the moment I took my place on the Fourth Plinth at 7pm they were welcoming, friendly and treated me like a member of the family. Interviews, briefings, photographs, security checks, more security checks... it all passed in a blur of nerves and excitement and a feeling of 'ohmygodiactuallyhavetodothisnowargh'.
Looking down from the PlinthWhen I applied for a place on the Plinth at the end of July I never actually expected to be picked from the thousands of entrants. I applied as a bit of a joke really, a little burst of confidence that I thought I'd never have to back up. But then the email arrived. 'Congratulations!', it read. And I was thrilled, truly, but my allocated time slot was weeks away and I had other things keeping my mind busy. Then suddenly it was the end of August and the Plinth was drawing closer. I had to think of something I could do up there. I didn't just want to stand or shout or read a book. I wanted my hour to mean something.
And I like to think that it did. Certainly to me anyway.
I can honestly say that yesterday was one of the most exciting days of my life. I loved each and every minute and I only wish I'd taken a bit more time to look around and breathe it in. Almost £1500 raised for charity and I had the time of my life doing it. If you didn't watch it and you'd like to then you can find my hour here. Please ignore my daft voice and ridiculous pink tutu.
Thankyou One & Other, it was a blast!!
