Giant 3D tribute to pioneering computer scientist Alan Turing unveiled at GCHQ
A giant 3D artwork of pioneering computer scientist Alan Turing has been unveiled at GCHQ as he becomes the first gay man to appear on a UK banknote.â¯â¯
The 10m by 10m rainbow canvas, inspired by the Pride flag, is at the centre of the intelligence service’s building in Benhall, Gloucestershire known as the Doughnut.
Turingâ¯isâ¯the father of modern computing, a pioneer in artificial intelligence,â¯and instrumental inâ¯breakingâ¯the German Enigma codes at Bletchley Park –â¯GCHQ’s wartime home⯖ duringâ¯the Secondâ¯World War.â¯â¯
After his efforts during the Second World War – which are credited with saving millions of lives – Mr Turing was convicted of gross indecency for his relationship with a man and later committed suicide after undergoing hormone treatment in an attempt to lower his libido.
GCHQ Director Jeremy Fleming said: “Alan Turing was a genius who helped to shorten the war and influence the technology that still shapes our lives today. He was embraced for his brilliance but persecuted for being gay.â¯â¯
“Turing’s legacy remindsâ¯usâ¯every day that diversity is essential and inclusion is mission critical to our organisation. His appearance on the £50 note is an important moment in ours and this country’s history. Turing was and remains a beacon of hope for all who dare to live and think differently.”â¯â¯â¯
The artwork, created by artist Joe Hill, features an image of Turing inside â¯wheelsâ¯from the British Bombe, theâ¯machine he designed to break Enigma-enciphered messages during the war.
The Head of GCHQ’s Prideâ¯Network Skylar, whose second name cannot be revealed for security reasons, said Turing was “a role model for many here at GCHQ”.
They added: “I am proud to see GCHQ recognising the importance Alan Turing has for LGBT+ people, owning its shared history with our community and doing so in such a public and bold way.”â¯
The first £50 notes depicting the famed mathematician will be issued from Wednesday, June 23.
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