Judge Throws the Book at Climate Activists Who Threw Soup on Van Gogh Painting

Photo by© Just Stop Oil / Handout/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

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London, October 2022 – Two environmental activists, Phoebe Plummer (21) and Anna Holland (20), have been sentenced to two years in prison after throwing a can of tomato soup at Vincent Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” painting in London's National Gallery. The incident, which occurred as part of a protest in October 2022, resulted in an estimated £10,000 worth of damage to the painting's frame, though the painting itself remained unharmed.

The Incident

• Date: October 2022
• Place: National Gallery, London
• Time: Afternoon

The activists, both members of the group Just Stop Oil, targeted the famous artwork to draw attention to the urgency of climate action. After throwing the soup, they glued themselves to the wall next to the painting, using the attention from onlookers and social media to raise awareness of the climate crisis.

According to The Guardian, the two were sentenced in London’s Southwark Crown Court for vandalism. The damage done was not to the painting itself, which was protected by glass, but rather to its frame.

Statements from the Activists

Phoebe Plummer, one of the protesters, stated:

"My choice today is to accept whatever sentences I receive with a smile, knowing that I’ve found peace in doing what I can to prevent countless millions of innocent people suffering and dying.”

Anna Holland, in her defense, added:

"We do not expect justice from a broken system that has been corrupted by its dependence on fossil fuels. Prison sentences, no matter how long, will not deter us."

Conclusion

This sentencing has sparked a debate about the effectiveness of extreme activism. While the activists’ passion for climate justice is clear, the method of targeting a beloved piece of art has been widely criticized. While their prison sentence may seem harsh, especially for individuals so young, it serves as a reminder that actions have legal consequences.

Ultimately, while Just Stop Oil’s cause remains crucial, critics argue that the group's strategy might alienate the public, failing to deliver the intended message about the urgent need for climate action.

Source: gizmodo