INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – A shocking act of vandalism has shaken the National Gallery, as three individuals face charges for allegedly throwing soup at two iconic Vincent van Gogh paintings.
The incident occurred on Friday during the highly acclaimed “Poets and Lovers” exhibition, targeting “Sunflowers 1888” and “Sunflowers 1889.” Stephen Simpson (61) and Mary Somerville (77) from Bradford, West Yorkshire, and Phillipa Green (24) from Penryn, Cornwall, were arrested at the scene and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, facing charges of criminal damage.
The National Gallery swiftly removed the paintings from public view for examination, but thankfully, both pieces of artwork were found to be undamaged.
The two “Sunflowers” paintings, along with a painting of a maternal figure, form a triptych that was displayed together according to Van Gogh’s wishes. The exhibition, showcasing over 60 of Van Gogh’s works, has received rave reviews, with critics hailing it as a “once-in-a-century” show.
This incident marks the third time in recent years that an artwork at the National Gallery has been targeted. The motive behind the act remains unclear, but the incident has sparked debate about the balance between artistic expression and the protection of cultural treasures. (Red)
