Gelisim News

Why are climate activists targeting artworks?

Climate activists pursue their protests. Prof. Dr. Ismet Cavusoglu from Istanbul Gelisim University evaluated the actions of climate activists using popular art.

Climate activists are engaged in many activities in order to raise awareness of today's people and take precautions against the causes/factors that have led to changes in climate conditions in recent years. Such emphases may be necessary for society, however, results can be obtained by using other methods and options. Artist Prof. Dr. Ismet Cavusoglu underlined that by using popular art works, such actions will make a noise for a short time, and this may cause damage to the works of art.



“Whatever the purpose, the art world does not approve of such actions”

Van Gogh, Sunflowers, Claude Monet 'Les Muelas' Leonardo da Vinci, Mona Lisa, Edwart Munch, The Scream, Gustav Klimt, Death and Life… Some of the paintings have been at the center of Climate Activists actions for the past year. Activists have damaged many artworks by throwing paint, food, or glue onto iconic artworks. Prof. Dr. Ismet Cavusoglu from Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Faculty of Fine Arts evaluated the climate activists' choice of artworks as tools.

Prof. Dr. Ismet Cavusoglu: “When we look at the processes in the world art history, there are some interventions against the popular art works in museums, galleries and parks at different times, nevertheless, societies and artists have always strongly opposed such actions. It is seen that in all actions against works of art, generally two people, sometimes one person or three people act. Moreover, Twitter messages are also used, as well as posing, chanting slogans and video shoots by the actors sticking themselves to the wall next to the painting. Damaging an artwork is a crime. Such works are also protected by law. It is easy for climate activists to choose works of art and as a result, permanent damage is done to some works.”



Climate activists must choose more harmless ways of protest

The art world attaches great significance to and supports the actions of climate activists in terms of improving climate conditions in the world and taking necessary precautions. However, as a result of these actions, we are absolutely against the damage to the works of art. Prof. Dr. Ismet Cavusoglu underlined that climate activists should choose more harmless methods in their actions.