Flynn angered by exhibition decision

ARTIST MANNIX Flynn says it should be up to parents rather than Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise to decide whether his work is appropriate for viewing by children.

A work by Mr Flynn entitled State Meant was one of the pieces that was to be shown from yesterday at the venue. However, the artist withdrew the exhibition after centre director Louise Donlon refused to allow it be shown in the foyer of the building.

Dunamaise Arts Centre said this was because two large panels contained a statement made by a victim of physical and sexual abuse “which contained the phrases ‘orally raped’ and ‘anal rape’ in giant type” and this could be clearly read “by any children who were entering the building”.

Mr Flynn, artistic director of Farcry Productions, said: “Clear warnings about the content of the work would have facilitated parents in making the decision they felt was appropriate for their children . . . No children will be harmed by an exhibition of words. If they can read it, and if they can understand it then it can be discussed with them, openly and honestly – and that’s true child protection.”

A spokesman for the Arts Council said: “The Arts Council absolutely stands by artists’ right to freedom of expression. In this case, our Child Protection and Welfare guidelines would suggest the proposals from Dunamaise Arts Centre represent simply responsible venue management.”

But Mr Flynn said: “Child protection is about protecting children from harm not from truth.”