Mark McGowan

MAN TO BE BURIED IN THE SAND ON MARGATE BEACH FOR 48 HOURS
(New commission for Margate Rocks 08)

In an extraordinary art performance artist Mark McGowan is to be buried in the sand on Margate beach for an incredible 48 hours. Starting on Saturday 3rd May at 12 noon and ending at 12 noon on Bank Holiday Monday 5th May 2008. The performance is an attempt to save the Great British Seaside Holiday and the environment/planet at the same time.

McGowan says, ‘The traditional British seaside holiday is in decline and everyone is flying abroad. This year, 30 million people will go on holidays abroad. This is due to cheap flights, sunnier climes and bargain bucket destinations. I am starting a campaign, which will include an art performance where I will be buried in the sand for 48 hours with a knotted handkerchief on my head, surrounded by Margate rock, holiday mementos and fed fish and chips everyday. This is to encourage people, so that when the time comes, to think about their holiday and don’t just book a holiday abroad, come to Margate.’

UPDATE

Mark McGowan, the artist who was attempting to stay buried on Margate beach has given up. Mark says, “I just couldn’t do it anymore physically and mentally. I lost it. I just couldn’t cope. The weight of the sand on my chest, the cold and the hot sun all took its toll. I am now going home to get the sand out of my ears and everywhere else, and have a hot bath.”



www.markmcgowan.org
Save the Environment and Come to Margate blog

<sub>Mark McGowan’s commission is supported by CRATE project and studio space, Margate.

Image: Man Buried in Sand on Margate Beach for 48 hours, 2008 © Mark McGowan</sub>