Art Russia Exhibition Under Fire for Alleged Censorship Over Insults to Believers, LGBT Propaganda, and Criticism of Authorities

At the “Art Russia” contemporary art fair at the Gostiny Dvor, the works of artists and gallery owners were not allowed in – they were checked for an insult to the feelings of believers, LGBT propaganda, and criticism of the authorities.

The “Art Russia” exhibition occurred in Moscow from March 30 to April 2. According to participants, censorship was introduced at several stages for the first time in three years of the exhibition’s existence.

One of the artists whose works were removed said that some exhibitors were asked not to display their works a few days before the presentation, even though they had been approved. And on the day of the gallery opening, the participants were forced to remove their paintings. In addition, all works were checked for three topics – “propaganda” of LGBT, criticism of the authorities, and an insult to the feelings of believers.

“I don’t know which criterion my work was removed for. The painting was approved and planned as my booth’s central work. I have no questions or claims about the organizers. I appreciate their continued work in Russia, and I understand their position. As far as I understood, the organizers were forced to remove these works, which was not their initiative. Now, everyone in art feels that a step to the left or right can have consequences.”

It was also reported that the artist’s work from Art Online 24 gallery, which was supposed to be presented at the fair, was removed from the exhibition because it resembled a balaclava. The gallery’s founder, Polina Askeri, said that the artist’s work had neither LGBT propaganda nor an insult to the feelings of believers. She refused to comment further – the exhibition was a month ago, the time has passed, and the issue has been taken off the agenda. The fair’s director, Elizaveta Frolova, said that her exhibition, like any other, must comply with the current legislation.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the picture bellow was removed.