London’s National Gallery Enforces Liquid Ban Due to Recent Climate Protest Attacks on Artworks

Recently, climate change protestors who attacked Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' artwork received sentencing, but London's National Gallery is no longer taking the risk.

Besides the Sunflowers incident, several other instances were also recorded, where historical artworks were almost damaged due to protests.

National Gallery to Ban Liquids

To prevent this from happening again, the Washington Post reported that the National Gallery of London will no longer allow liquids in the area starting this Friday. Exceptions will only be for baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medicines. It is also a requirement for all visitors to pass through metal detectors and have their bags checked. The museum encourages them to bring as few items as possible.

The museum stated these security measures are necessary to protect its valuable collection for future generations and assured that free tap water is still available inside.

Over the last two years, protestors have defaced famous artworks and landmarks to emphasize their causes. While some targets were protected with glass, some were still damaged. In fact, the frame of Van Gogh's Sunflowers reportedly had $13,400 worth of damages. Not to mention, it has always been London museums that received attacks.

Besides artworks, this is also a concern for visitors and staff.

According to the Art Newspaper, the National Museum Directors Council urged an end to these protests and while they welcome the causes activists are protesting, they are still prioritizing a safe and welcoming environment for museum-goers.

Groups, such as Just Stop Oil, defended their actions saying that the damage caused is only small compared to the bigger destruction the world will meet from government-supported oil activities. They also highlighted that they understand people are upset and worried, but they will face a much bigger problem with climate change if no action is taken.