The ArcelorMittal Orbit

The ArcelorMittal Orbit is the biggest eyesore and complete waste of money in the history of the world, ever. Or, if you prefer the official line, it’s the tallest steel structure in the UK, a superb work of art, part of the ‘Olympic legacy’ and well worth the £22.7 million that it cost. Yes, the ArcelorMittal Orbit really is that divisive, and for those who haven’t yet seen it, take a look at the YouTube video below to see why…

 

Now I don’t know much about art, but if this is £22.7 million worth then I reckon I could grab a nail gun and knock out about £250,000 worth every time I clear out the garage. Yes, my art would look like an immense pile of crap, but apparently that’s what passes for culture in 21st century London, so who am I to argue?

 

Uhm no, I’ve seen it and I’m still very, very sceptical. Speaking my mind like this probably won’t go down too well in some quarters, but I really feel like I’m actually living in the story of The Emperor’s New Clothes instead of just reading it. People are looking at the ArcelorMittal Orbit and gushing about it, using words like genius, inspired and incredible. Well I’m sorry, but it is none of those things. It’s a huge monstrosity and an embarrassment to the nation. Not only is the Emperor walking around town completely starkers, but his appendage is flapping around in the breeze for good measure, and I reserve the right to point and laugh.

Had the Olympic bods in London given me just ten per cent of what the ArcelorMittal Orbit cost then I could have created something similar using nothing but a second-hand rollercoaster, some scaffolding and some carefully-pilfered racks from the Olympic Weighlifting department. Even better, I’d probably have a couple of million quid left over for nibbles, so we’d all be happy.

There is no real point to today’s post other than to bring your attention to the ArcelorMittal Orbit and highlight how pointless it is. There are starving kids all over the world and someone thinks it’s a good idea to spend over £22.7 million on something like this. Is it just me or doesn’t that demonstrate a ridiculous lack of perspective?