Bush Monkeys (painting)
Artist: Chris Savido
Year: 2004
Date of Action: December 2004
Region: North America
Location: New York, New York
Subject: Political/Economic/Social Opinion
Medium: Painting, Public Art
Confronting Bodies: Chelsea Market
Description of Artwork: The painting from afar appears to be a picture of president George W. Bush's head, but when viewed from up close, the details are made from images of monkeys swimming in a swamp.
The Incident: The painting was set to go on display in the Chelsea Market public space along with other artworks that were to be in the upcoming edition of Animal Magazine (a magazine that promotes up-and-coming artists). Several hours into the first day of the exhibition, however, the manager of the show ordered that the piece be taken down.
Results of Incident: The entire show was moved to a downtown Animal art gallery, and demonstrations were held to protest against the act of censorship. Savido went on to sell "Bush Monkeys" at auction, with 25% of the proceeds going to the NCAC.
Source:
• http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1214-03.htm