Mayor of Liverpool Council Ned Mannoun recently called for the removal of a painting by artist Phil James from an exhibition at the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre after what he referred to as “many complaints from numerous residents who were disgusted and offended that Liverpool Council was displaying this artwork” and “The Christian Messiah and the Muslim Messiah Jesus has no connection to the cartoon character Goofy”
The painting itself titled ‘Jesus Speaks to the Daughters of Jerusalem’ depicts Jesus carrying a cross but eith a “Looney tunes” cartoon head along with other Biblical characters who have also had heads replaced by cartoon type characters.
Phil James, the artist responsible for the painting has been quoted as stating “I do like stirring a bit of a reaction with my work, but the novelty very quickly wore off on Friday.” which is consistent with some of his other works of “art”. “I’ve been doing these sorts of works for around 15 years and I’ve had one or two people upset but nothing like this.” he added.
Jason Breton, acting Liverpool Council CEO, said the artwork was removed in response to the mayor’s position and safety concerns due the community response.
Phil james reportedly acknowledged he was “absolutely happy to put safety first”, however claimed he was concerned that the incident may set a precedent for limits on freedom of expression and “That for me is the most problematic thing: the mayor requested it to be taken down, putting politicking before freedom of expression. Where does it end?”
Mayor Ned Mannoun said the right to free speech needed to be balanced with the right to practise religion without fear, persecution or ridicule, which is consistent with both the law and what appears to be consistent with public opinion which to some extent protects the rights of people from being mocked due to religion, race, colour, gender or sexual preference.