King Charles’ Portrait Defaced by Activists in London Gallery

A newly unveiled portrait of King Charles III has become the target of protesters in London, with activists covering it in graffiti to express their dissatisfaction. The portrait, painted by British artist Damian Hirst, was installed at the National Portrait Gallery as part of the “Coming Home” exhibition. However, within hours of its unveiling, activists from the group “Animal Rebellion” stormed the gallery and sprayed the canvas with orange paint. The graffiti reads “Climate Emergency” and “End Animal Farming,” highlighting the group’s concerns about the environmental and animal welfare implications of the king’s reign. Animal Rebellion has previously staged protests against the monarchy, demanding a plant-based food system and an end to animal exploitation. In a statement, the group said: “We are taking action to expose the truth about the climate and ecological emergency that our government is failing to address. The king has a unique opportunity to show leadership on this issue, but he is choosing to ignore it.” The Metropolitan Police responded to the incident, and two activists were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. The gallery has since closed the room where the portrait is displayed and is assessing the damage. The defacement of the portrait has sparked controversy, with some condemning the action as vandalism while others expressing support for the protesters’ message. The incident has also raised questions about the security measures in place at the gallery and the role of public art in facilitating protest. The “Coming Home” exhibition features portraits of the British royal family throughout history, including some controversial figures. The inclusion of King Charles’ portrait has been seen by some as a provocative move, given his recent ascension to the throne and the ongoing debate about the relevance of the monarchy in modern British society. Nevertheless, the National Portrait Gallery has defended its decision to display the portrait, stating that it is part of its mission to “explore the stories of the people who have shaped British history” and that it values freedom of expression.King Charles III’s Portrait Vandalized by Activists in London Gallery

King Charles III’s Portrait Vandalized by Activists in London Gallery

Animal Rising activists have taken action in a London gallery, covering an official portrait of King Charles III with posters featuring the cartoon character Wallace. The demonstration aimed to highlight the group’s investigation into 45 farms “secured” by the RSPCA, which allegedly revealed 280 legal breaches and 94 violations of Defra regulations. One activist involved, Daniel Juniper, expressed hope that the gesture would draw the King’s attention to the “horrific scenes” on RSPCA-supported farms and urged him to reconsider his association with the charity. Animal Rising claims that the signs covering the portrait can be removed without damaging the paint. They have not provided any additional information about their investigation or the specific allegations made against the RSPCA. The RSPCA has been approached for comment but has not yet responded. The protest highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare on factory farms and the role of organizations like the RSPCA in monitoring and certifying such farms.