Kochi Biennale venue closed after exhibiting controversial artwork on Christ's Last Supper

Ernakulam: In a rare occurrence, a venue of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale was temporarily closed after protests by Catholic and other Christian groups against an artwork depicting a version of Jesus Christ’s ‘The Last Supper’.

The entire row erupted after a painting by Kerala-based artist Tom Vattakuzhy, exhibited as part of the Biennale’s curated show ‘Idam’. Christian organisations alleged that the artwork hurt religious sentiments and disrespected the traditional depiction of Jesus Christ and the Last Supper.

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The Kerala Latin Catholic Association demanded the immediate withdrawal of the artwork and sought an apology within 24 hours. Association secretary Biju Josey Karumanchery, in a Facebook post, questioned the use of public funds for what he termed an insult to Christian faith.

“Do not think you can show whatever you want in the name of freedom of expression using government money. Are you insulting us with the tax money we also pay? A world-famous mural painted by the world-famous painter Leonardo da Vinci was painted in this way” he wrote.

The Syro-Malabar Church also voiced concern, stating that while freedom of expression is vital in a democracy, it should not misrepresent or offend religious beliefs.

Biennale authorities said the venue was shut following protests and to avoid any law-and-order issues during New Year celebrations. “All venues are closed due to New Year restrictions and will reopen on January 2,” the organisers said.

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Meanwhile, the artist Tom Vattakuzhy while speaking to a regional channel rejected the claims saying that it depends on each individual’s perspective. He said that there was no intention to defame the Last Supper and the painting is based on a play.

Youth Congress workers also staged a protest against the artwork at the Biennale venue in Kochi.