Three Stephen Simpson, Mary Somerville, and Phillipa Green have entered not guilty pleas to charges of criminal damage following an incident at the National Gallery in London. The activists, associated with the environmental group Just Stop Oil, are accused of throwing soup on two versions of Vincent van Gogh's iconic Sunflowers paintings.
The event occurred on September 27, 2024, shortly after two other Just Stop Oil members were sentenced for a similar act in October 2022. This recent incident has reignited discussions about the intersection of art, activism, and environmental concerns.
Prosecutor James Bowker stated that while the paintings themselves were unharmed due to protective glass, the frames sustained damage. One frame, an antique owned by the National Gallery valued between £10,000 and £20,000, may require extensive restoration. The other frame, on loan from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, is believed to be of similar value.
Van Gogh's Sunflowers series, consisting of seven paintings, is among the most recognizable artworks globally. The Dutch post-impressionist artist, who sold only one painting during his lifetime, created these masterpieces in Arles, France. Today, Van Gogh's works are celebrated worldwide, with reproductions adorning various everyday items.
The National Gallery, home to over 2,300 paintings spanning from the mid-13th century to 1900, attracts more than 5 million visitors annually. Founded in 1824, the gallery has survived significant historical events, including bombing during World War II, and continues to offer free admission to its permanent collection.
Defense lawyer Raj Chada emphasized that the paintings themselves were not damaged due to the protective glass. The court granted bail to Simpson, Somerville, and Green, with conditions including restrictions on entering Greater London within the M25 except for court appearances.
This incident follows the sentencing of Phoebe Plummer and Anna Holland, who received jail terms for a similar act targeting Van Gogh's Sunflowers in October 2022. Their action caused up to £10,000 worth of damage to the frame of the 1888 work, valued at approximately £72.5 million.
The ongoing legal proceedings and activist actions have sparked debates about the effectiveness and ethics of such protests. As the case moves to Southwark Crown Court on October 28, 2024, it continues to draw attention to environmental issues and the role of art in society.
"The Sunflowers are loved by millions of people around the world and in the UK. These actions have a serious social impact and we condemn any attempts to damage or disrupt access to these beloved artworks."
The incident highlights the complex relationship between art preservation, public access, and activist strategies in addressing global concerns. As the trial unfolds, it will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing discussions about climate activism and the protection of cultural heritage.