Justine Wollaston (artist)
Artist: Justine Wollaston
Year: 2003
Date of Action: 2003-2005
Region: North America
Location: Pilot Point, Texas
Subject:
Medium: Painting
Confronting Bodies: Pilot Point Police Department
Description of Artwork: The mural features a large hand pointing to an apple, opposite a nude woman looking at the same apple.
The Incident: In 2003, Wes Miller, owner of the Farmers and Merchants Art Gallery, commissioned local artist Justine Wollaston to paint the side of his building with a mural. Shortly after it was complete, Miller started receiving written reprimands from the Pilot Point police, asking him to take down the mural or face prosecution for violation of Texas law, which forbids the distribution of "harmful material" to minors. To avoid prosecution, Miller placed a "crime scene" banner over the nude's breasts.
Results of Incident: In 2005, Miller sued the city for infringing upon his first amendment rights, and won. [1]