Nude art goes back on show in Harrow after censorship (From Harrow Times)

Nude art goes back on show in Harrow after censorship

1:50pm Wednesday 11th March 2009 in News By Tristan Kirk

NUDE artwork has been put on show in the borough after a U-turn by Harrow Council.

A council officer took the decision last year to ban paintings and drawings depicting nude figures from Harrow Arts Centre, claiming it could offend some religious groups and children.

But a new exhibition by Harrow Arts Society in Gayton Library features six paintings featuring nudes.

Councillor Chris Mote, in charge of culture, who backed the original decision, said he thought it was right they go on display.

He said: “Do we bow to a single complaint to the detriment of other people looking at it? No. I think we should allow art to be shown.

“This is the way Harrow will be looking at it in the future.

“We will put up notices warning people of the content, and if you don't want to look at it then you don't have to.”

When the work was removed from the arts centre, it caused an outcry among artists who felt their work was being censored by the council.

Several artists threatened to boycott the arts centre until the ban had been lifted, and pointed out nude works are on public display across London without fear of causing offence.

Cllr Mote said the council is working on producing a policy about artwork to make sure there is no confusion in the future.

At present, Harrow does not have a dedicated space for art to be shown, and artists are forced to display their work in public buildings like libraries, schools, and the arts centre.

The outrage over censorship led to a call for the council to consider investing in a dedicated art gallery and performance space, and the idea was floated of converting the old Gayton Road Library building.

However, the council has not been able to commit funds to such a project, given the current economic condition.

The exhibition in the library, featuring work by Jonathan Hutchins, one of the artists whose work was previously banned, is open until Saturday, March 14.

What do you think of the nude work on show? Leave your comments below.