Philippines: blasphemous exhibit closed; artists protest

August 09, 2011

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) has closed down a blasphemous art exhibit, amid angry protests from Catholic leaders and from the country’s political leaders.

President Benigno Aquino chastised the CCP leaders for allowing an exhibit that offended the beliefs of the country’s Christian majority. He disclosed that he had contacted CCP board members to encourage them to close the show. Other leading lawmakers called for an investigation of the CCP officials who sponsored the exhibit.

The exhibit by Mideo Cruz, which had opened in June, included a number of images of Jesus and the Virgin Mary that were clearly intended to shock believers. Among the less offensive items was a depiction of Jesus Christ as Mickey Mouse. Other items were much more vulgar.

Artists’ groups predictably denounced the closing of the exhibit, claiming that it was an example of government censorship and saying that artists should be free to make their statements, even if they offend others.

 

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Further information:

• Blasphemous art exhibit closed down (Manila Bulletin)
• CCP closes down art exhibit amidst hue and cry from gov’t, Catholics (Inquirer)
• Controversial Art Exhibit Is Shut Down in the Philippines (New York Times)
• Philippines shuts art show deemed offensive (AP)
• National Artist rues closure of 'blasphemous' art show (ABS-CBN)