Critics say NGA decision ‘is nothing less than a disgraceful act of censorship’ that is ‘rooted in political cowardice’Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe National Gallery of Australia claims it covered Palestinian flags in a major exhibition after undertaking a security threat assessment, but critics say the decision was “rooted in political cowardice”.The Guardian this week revealed two Palestinian flags on a large tapestry hanging in an exhibition currently showing in Canberra have been covered with white fabric.Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email Continue reading...
The National Gallery of Australia (NGA) has covered Palestinian flags on a tapestry in the "SaVĀge K’lub Te Paepae Aora’i – Where the Gods Cannot be Fooled" exhibition following a security threat assessment. The tapestry, which features various flags and symbols including the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and West Papua flags, was altered due to concerns over past protests and violence. While the artists and curator initially resisted, they agreed to the compromise. Critics argue the action constitutes censorship and reflects political motives, undermining artistic freedom. This decision has drawn criticism, particularly amid broader concerns about censorship in the arts.
