A London art curator has been left devastated after a series of vandalism attacks, involving a pickaxe, forced the early closure of a socially-conscious exhibition, leaving a repair bill of £15,000.
Three Nights of Targeted Attacks
The exhibition, titled 'Window Wonderland', was launched on December 12 as an alternative festive display to high-end department stores. Curator Pallas Citroen described it as a challenge to "air capitalist fantasies". It featured works highlighting the conflict in Gaza, women's rights in Iran, and other social justice themes.
Held in two venues owned by The Bomb Factory Art Foundation in Marylebone and Holborn, it was meant to run until January 18. However, over three consecutive nights from January 6 to January 9, vandals targeted the galleries. They used a pickaxe to attack the glass shopfronts, forcing the curator to board up the sites.
Symbols of Hate and a 'Free UK'
The physical damage was accompanied by symbolic acts. Union Jack and St George's Cross stickers were left on the windows, and the phrase 'Free UK' was scrawled in orange lipstick. Artist Daniel Lismore, whose work featured a British flag with 'refugees welcome', saw the window protecting his piece shattered.
Lismore, who has received online death threats, linked the attack to this hate. "These groups say they're all for freedom of speech but they can’t face it when it's directed towards their beliefs," he said. Fellow artist Fa Razavi questioned the message: "A free UK, without freedom of speech!? Do they actually see freedom of speech as a threat to freedom?"
Police Investigation Halted and Lasting Impact
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they were called on January 11 but stated they are unable to proceed with an investigation due to a lack of evidence. All lines of enquiry were exhausted. While insurance is expected to cover most costs, the emotional and symbolic impact is significant.
Despite the attack, curator Pallas Citroen remains defiant. "I’m really pleased we did it, it highlights the fact it’s a necessary exhibition," she said. "The attack didn’t stop the conversation. If anything, it confirmed exactly why we need to keep having it."
