National Gallery bans liquids after activist attacks on artworks
New rules follow recent attacks on van Gogh's Sunflowers and other artworks
The National Gallery has implemented a ban on liquids, with exceptions for baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medicines, following attacks by activists on its artworks, including Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers. This new rule takes effect today. The London museum has also advised visitors to bring “minimal items” and avoid “large bags.”
In a statement, the museum explained the necessity of these measures to protect visitors, staff, and the art collection. Several attacks on artworks since July 2022 have prompted this decision. Notable incidents involved John Constable’s The Hay Wain, Velazquez’s Rokeby Venus, and van Gogh’s Sunflowers. These attacks have physically damaged artworks, distressed visitors and staff, and disrupted the museum’s mission to make great art accessible to all.
The museum highlighted that two attacks occurred within the past two weeks, necessitating these operational changes for the foreseeable future.
BREAKING: 2 VAN GOGH PAINTINGS SOUPED HOURS AFTER PHOEBE AND ANNA SENTENCED
3 Just Stop Oil supporters have thrown soup over 2 of Van Gogh paintings in the 'Poets and Lovers' exhibition at the National Gallery.
These people need to be locked up like Phoebe pic.twitter.com/oTvrjASEaT
— WeGotitBack 🏴🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@NotFarLeftAtAll) September 27, 2024
Enhanced security measures now include walk-through metal detectors at all gallery entrances, where bags and rucksacks will be inspected. This may result in longer entry times. Last month, two versions of van Gogh’s Sunflowers were targeted with soup. Although the paintings were unharmed, the frames sustained damage valued between £10,000 and £20,000. Three Just Stop Oil supporters have pleaded not guilty to criminal damage related to this incident.
In October 2022, two Just Stop Oil activists were jailed for causing up to £10,000 worth of damage to the frame of one of van Gogh’s Sunflowers. In another incident in July 2022, two activists glued themselves to Constable’s The Hay Wain. Additionally, in November of the previous year, protesters allegedly smashed the glass protecting the Rokeby Venus, causing over £6,000 in damage.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Museums Journal reports that the National Gallery bans liquids following a wave of art attacks, emphasizing security concerns and the need for vigilance in cultural institutions.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did the National Gallery ban liquids?
The ban follows attacks by activists on artworks to protect visitors, staff, and the collection.
Are there any exceptions to the liquid ban at the National Gallery?
Yes, exceptions include baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medicines.
What security measures has the National Gallery implemented?
They have walk-through metal detectors and inspect all bags and rucksacks.
What items should visitors avoid bringing to the National Gallery?
Visitors are advised to bring minimal items and avoid large bags.
Which famous artworks were recently attacked at the National Gallery?
Notable artworks attacked include van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Constable’s The Hay Wain, and Velazquez’s Rokeby Venus.
