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Re: 'Disgusting display': Town Square exhibit closes amid antisemitism concerns, Sept. 26, 2024.
I am disgusted that a member of the community would use an inflammatory expression such as "calling for my death" in a discussion of an art piece that does no such thing.
I am neither Jewish nor Palestinian, but art is about engaging the viewer and fostering thought and opinion. Both of the art pieces mentioned in your article are meant to make the public think. Think; not encourage violence or threaten, but engage, even confront an issue that some may find not to their taste.
To close an entire exhibition because you are personally offended is the worst form of hypocrisy, and far more damaging than free expression.
To label artwork as antisemitic is simply wrong in this case. It is a thought-provoking expression on the part of an artist who happens to hold a differing opinion to some who may view it. To allow those viewers the power to close an exhibition for all the participating artists is no different than banning books in my opinion.
Vaughn Dues
