Artistic Freedom Under Siege: Vandalism Sparks Debate in Kerala

Algerian-French artist Hanan Benammar's artwork, part of the 'Estranged Geographies' exhibition in Kerala, was vandalized by artist P H Hochiman. The incident, streamed live on Facebook, has been condemned as an attack on artistic freedom. Legal actions are being considered to address the violent disruption.

Algerian-French artist Hanan Benammar expressed alarm over the vandalism of her artwork at the 'Estranged Geographies' exhibition in Kerala, perpetrated by local artist P H Hochiman. Describing the act as an assault on artistic freedom, Benammar underscored the necessity to safeguard spaces for free expression.

The vandalized work, a series of linocuts titled ''Go Eat Your Dad'', was torn down while Hochiman live-streamed the event, labeling the artwork as obscene. Benammar emphasized the irony of her work, designed as a commentary on censorship, being subjected to such an act.

Kerala Lalithakala Akademi Chairman Murali Cheeroth condemned the incident and assured that legal measures would be pursued against Hochiman, who deemed the piece objectionable on grounds of abusive language. The incident has sparked wider discussions on artistic censorship and freedom.

(With inputs from agencies.)