A group of pro Palestinian protesters disrupted a showcase event in east London to show off a new climate mural where the United States Ambassador was scheduled to appear.
Jane Hartley was on her way to Shoreditch Monday morning, but was diverted when the demonstrators arrived.
Around 25 people gathered at the site to unveil banners criticizing US policy towards Israel and waved Palestinian Flags.
The ambassador told BBC London that the 7 October anniversary is a “very sad day”. She also said she believes “in the freedom of speech and protest” and “in the right to express oneself”.
Shepard Fairey is the artist and activist who created the poster “Hope for Obama 2008” as well as Rise Above Earth Justice.
Hartley was asked if it was a good day to unveil the Mural. She replied: “When planned it was because Shepard finished the mural and we were planning to announce it during Frieze Week because we thought that it was a great example of what art can do: get communities involved, bring communities together.
“We want the hostages to be brought home. We feel for these families who have suffered so much pain.” The ambassador told BBC that he wanted a ceasefire, and humanitarian aid to be sent in to help people – babies, children, and families.
Fairey painted the mural on the suggestion of Hartley who was appointed by President Joe Biden as the US ambassador to Britain in July 2022.
The mural, inspired by a series workshops held earlier this summer with young people from London aims to highlight climate awareness.
Fairey said that the mural, which includes a flower measuring 50ft (15m), uses symbols to convey a message that “it is within our power to rise above injustice of environmental irresponsibility, and push for a healthier planet”.
The artist said: “I think that our individual and combined actions will have a dramatic impact on current and future generations – for better or worse.” As citizens of Earth, it is our duty to protect the planet.
The project was created by Migrate Art. They donate their profits to groups that support marginalised and displaced people and communities around the world.
The film was produced by Charlotte Pyatt, Simon Butler, and funded by the Ford Foundation with the support of the US Embassy.
Follow BBC London on Facebook X, Instagram and Sounds. Send your story ideas to [email protected]
Read More @ www.bbc.com