Print| Press Room | Press Statements | Last updated: 29 May 2012 |
FAWU feels removal of The Spear painting was the right thing to do
29 May 2012
The despicable Spear painting, depicting the President of the country, Jacob Zuma ,cannot possibly be considered as art as it is of questionable morality.
One has to wonder what would inspire an artist and especially one who hails from South Africa, to come up with something as undignified and that display a blatant disrespect for the President of the country.
Surely, in our country with its diverse nature, and in acknowledgement of our history of racial oppression, all citizens, including artists should respect the dignity, values and culture of all races in our beautiful country.
The painting clearly violates President Jacob Zuma`s right to dignity and this is a fact that should not be hiding behind excuses of freedom of expression. Weighing the two up against each other, the freedom of expression should not infringe on the right to dignity.
FAWU supported the march to the Goodman Gallery that took place today as we were convinced that this barbaric painting and all others targeting the African National Congress (ANC) should no longer be exhibited at the Goodman Gallery. We together with the Alliance Partners were ecstatic earlier today when it was announced that the Goodman Gallery and City Press decided to remove the painting. We firmly believe this was the right thing to do.
Long Live the ANC, Long Live! Long Live the President, Long Live!
Please call FAWU Deputy General Secretary Moleko Phakedi on 082 492511 for more information
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