In a bold and controversial move, activists from the environmental group Just Stop Oil broke into London’s National Gallery on Monday and damaged a famous painting by Spanish artist Diego Velázquez. The act of vandalism was a protest against the British government’s decision to approve new oil and gas extraction projects in the North Sea.
The painting, known as the “Venus of the mirror” or “Rokeby Venus,” was targeted due to its symbolic value as a representation of the female form. This is not the first time the painting has suffered damage; in 1914 it was attacked by a suffragette who slashed the canvas with a cleaver in an attempt to gain attention for their fight for women’s right to vote. Similarly, the environmental activists hoped to draw attention to their message through this extreme action.
According to Just Stop Oil, the British government’s decision to allow new oil and gas exploration is a direct threat to the environment and will result in the deaths of millions of people. The group argues that the government’s failure to take action on climate change and transition to cleaner energy sources is a betrayal to future generations and the planet.
While the act of vandalism has resulted in arrests and criticism, Just Stop Oil stands by their actions, stating that peaceful protests and petitions have not been effective in bringing about the necessary change. In a society where complex issues often go unnoticed, the group believes that bold and disruptive actions are crucial to bringing attention to their cause.
While the damage to the painting can be repaired, the most important issue remains the need for immediate and meaningful action to combat climate change.
With information from France 24