Bill Lockyer: U.S. in Toilet Art Forum
The Sacramento Bee has set up a discussion forum for the anti-American art displayed in California Attorney General Bill Lockyer’s office in Sacramento.
A painting on display at the Department of Justice depicting a star-spangled map of United States being flushed down a toilet has sparked a debate over free speech and good taste. The piece, by artist Stephen Pearcy titled “T’anks to Mr. Bush,” is part of an exhibit sponsored by California Lawyers for the Arts.
The California Arts Council presented the show in conjunction with the attorney general’s office, and the paintings hang in the building’s cafeteria. To read the full story, please click here.
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One Comment
Eugene A. Gimelli
I am a retired Deputy Sheriff from Santa Clara County with 31+ years service as well as a Retired E9 from the Coast Guard Reserve. I have lived in the state of California all my life except for my 4 years in the Regular Coast Guard. I have held various positions in local as well as the Federal government. I have been responsible for establishing various new and older facilities for both the Sheriff's Department and the U. S. Coast Guard. Public buildings belong to yes – the public. Public servants have the responsibility to exercise sound judgement when decorating or selecting art work for their facilities. The display of "art work" similar to the picture of the U. S. taking a dive into the toilet belongs in counter culture museum – not in a public building. Based on the judgement of the Attorney General as well as the "Lawyers for the Arts" (does this group actually exist?), I have serious doubts about the intelligence and common sense of those responsible for this display. It reminds me of a statement made by a Deputy friend of mine some years ago. His comment would be "I guess his or her mother did not love him or her enough" or "these guys play with themselves too much – only an idiot would make such a choice".