After lobbying by pro-Israel groups, Manchester University censored the of the Clouds Studies exhibition by the removal of their statement in honour of the courage of the Palestinian people. In the face of this censorship and attack on artistic freedom this gave the artist no alternative but to close the exhibition. We are very pleased to report that because of the number and strength of the protests, the Whitworth Gallery has now reinstated the statement, and the exhibition has reopened today (Friday 20 Aug).
We urge people to visit the Cloud Studies exhibition, which was part of Manchester International Festival and is on until 17th October. It is an amazing piece of work. Forensic Architecture have been nominated for the Turner prize. In 2018, Forensic Architecture were shortlisted for the Turner prize for previous work. Please note that it is necessary to book in advance.
BOOK FOR THE CLOUD STUDIES EXHIBITION
Protest against University Censorship
On Wednesday there was an fantastic demonstration outside the Gallery with some excellent speeches including an incisive one from the director of Forensic Architecture Eyal Weissman, who had come from London with colleagues to join the protest.
VIDEO OF THE DEMONSTRATION ON WED 18 AUG
In addition to the demonstration, over 1,000 messages of protest had been received by the University by Wednesday morning before a further 14,000 were sent by supporter usning the e-action organised by PSC.
