Nude Christ in JFK Airport
Artist: Deborah Masters
Year: 2001
Date of Action: April 2001
Region: North America
Location: JFK Airport, New York, NY
Subject: Nudity
Medium: Installation, Mixed Media
Confronting Bodies: JFK Airport Officials
Description of Artwork: A 300-foot long mixed-media mural depicting scenes of New York City life, with an 18-inch depiction of a nude, crucified Christ
The Incident: After receiving several complaints from construction workers at the airport, the Catholic League contacted JFK officials to inquire about the mural. The Catholic League expressed its concern at having a nude depiction of Jesus remain in an airport terminal, and requested that the airport speak with the artist about altering her rendering of Christ
Results of Incident: The artist was consulted, and, claiming that she had meant to cover up Christ's genitals with the addition of a garment, Masters painted a loincloth to alleviate the airport employees' distress. City officials, including Mayor Giuliani, were not involved in the momentary controversy.
Source:
• http://www.nytimes.com/2001/04/25/nyregion/blushing-then-brushing-artist-covers-nude-christ.html