Why Algerian-French Artist’s Work, Titled 'Go Eat Your Dad', Vandalised by Another Artist in Kochi

Kochi: Oslo-based Algerian-French artist Hanan Benammar witnessed a disturbing incident after her artwork was vandalised by Kerala-based artist PH Hochiman during its exhibition at the Durbar Hall Art Gallery of the Kerala Lalitha Kala Akademi in Kochi. PH Hochiman, who did not regret his act, said that her (Benammar) artwork was obscene. The Algerian-French artist voiced concern over the vandalism, calling it a direct assault on artistic freedom and the right to free expression.Hanan Benammar's six printed linocut works titled "Go Eat Your Dad", which were part of the ongoing exhibition "Estranged Geographies" at Durbar Hall Art Gallery, were torn down by Hochiman on Wednesday. He live-streamed the act on Facebook, claiming the works were obscene.

Violence in Art Space Unacceptable, Says Benammar

Speaking to reporters, Benammar said she felt relieved that no one was physically harmed during the incident but stressed that violence in art spaces was unacceptable."I am relieved that only the artwork was attacked. I condemn any act of violence in an art space. It is very important to preserve spaces for free expression, especially in these complicated and difficult times," she said.

Benammar Says Her Work Reflects Acts of Silencing

Benammar said her work itself was a response to "acts of silencing, moral policing and censorship" she had experienced as an artist."It was a way to release anger and reflect humorously on language, class, and gender in colloquial speech. So it is ironic to see the work attacked for the very issues it explores," she said.The artist said she appreciated the support she received from curators, fellow artists, and the Ministry of Culture."We knew that the work would create discussion, and we welcome dialogue on issues of violence. I don’t want this experience to define my time here. I am very happy to be in Kerala so far," she said.ALSO READ | Physical vs Emotional Cheating: Kajol and Twinkle Khanna’s Quiz Sparks a Debate And We Try to Answer It

Benammar on Artist Vandalism Another Artist's Work

Benammar said she was aware that another artist had vandalised her work. "Artists should think twice before attacking another artist’s work. The piece carried strong language, and we had already warned viewers who did not wish to engage with it," she said.She said that she totally understands and respects differing opinions. "I was never contacted for discussion or criticism before this act," she added.

Kerala Akademi Condemns Incident, Files Case

Kerala Lalithakala Akademi Chairman Murali Cheeroth condemned the incident, describing it as an attack on artistic freedom. "These were not abusive words. Benammar had encountered such words as criticism in her life and translated them into Malayalam using Google Translate before incorporating them into her work," he said.He added that the Akademi would lodge a police complaint over the incident. "We discussed the issue with executive members and decided to take legal action. Such acts must be resisted so that they are not repeated in the future," he said.Cheeroth said Benammar wanted the torn pieces of her artwork to remain on the gallery floor as a symbol of resistance.ALSO READ | Doctor Who Took on ‘Fake ORS’ Hits Out at FSSAI Over Stay On Historic OrderLater, Cheeroth lodged a complaint at the Ernakulam Central Police Station, and a case was registered against Hochimin and his associate Sudhamshu.The case was registered under Sections 329(3) (criminal trespass) and 324(4) (committing mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.According to the FIR, the accused trespassed into the Darbar Hall and destroyed the artworks, claiming they were obscene. The total loss is estimated to be around Rs 10 lakh, the FIR said.Meanwhile, Hochiman told a television channel that he had no regrets over his action."It was not art but abusive language. We have fought for freedom of expression, but this work was anti-Dalit and anti-women, which I cannot accept as an artist," he said, adding that he was ready to face the consequences if legal action was taken.

Attacks on Cultural Expression Increasingly Normalised, Says Safdar Hashmi Memorial Trust

Reacting to the incident, New Delhi-based Safdar Hashmi Memorial Trust (SAHMAT) strongly condemned the vandalism of Hanan Benammar's artwork and expressed deep concern over the nature of the attack, noting that while previous assaults on artistic expression have typically come from right-wing groups, this instance was particularly disturbing as it was carried out by a fellow artist and in Kerala, a state known for its progressive and tolerant cultural ethos.SAHMAT warned that such attacks on cultural expression have become increasingly normalised in recent years, fuelled by divisive political rhetoric.Adding further, SAHMAT said that this has happened just before the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, which has become an international milestone, is to open in December 2025.These kinds of attacks on culture have become normalised in the last few years and have been promoted by hate-filled political rhetoric. This must be resisted at all costs, SAHMAT said adding action must be taken under the law and the perpetrators must not be allowed to get away with their violence.With inputs from PTI