In response to a series of activist attacks on its most iconic paintings, the National Gallery in London has introduced new security measures that will drastically change how visitors experience the space. Beginning Friday, October 18, 2024, visitors will no longer be allowed to bring liquids into the gallery, with exceptions made only for baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medicines. These measures are part of a broader effort to protect both the staff and the irreplaceable art collection housed within the museum, which has been repeatedly targeted by climate activists in recent years.
Notable works that have been attacked include Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers, John Constable’s The Hay Wain, and Diego Velázquez’s The Rokeby Venus. In the latest incidents, Just Stop Oil activists poured soup over Van Gogh’s masterpieces, sparking outrage and causing physical damage. These attacks, which began in 2022 and have intensified over the last two weeks, have led the National Gallery to enforce tighter restrictions, including the use of walk-through metal detectors and bag inspections at all entrances. Visitors are now encouraged to bring as few items as possible, with large bags prohibited.
Additionally, the gallery has banned any displayed or wearable paraphernalia associated with organizations posing a physical threat to its collection. Distribution of campaign materials is also forbidden, a clear message aimed at preventing further protest actions within the museum.
A gallery spokesperson expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to visitors but emphasized the importance of these changes. “Free access to the National Gallery allows everyone to be inspired by humanity’s greatest achievements. The collection we hold is irreplaceable, and with each attack, we’ve had to consider putting more barriers between people and artworks to preserve these fragile objects for future generations,” the statement read.
This heightened security comes after mounting concern from cultural leaders across the UK, who have spoken of the stress these protests have caused for staff and visitors. In an open letter, museum directors across the country highlighted the increasing threat to public safety, noting that some visitors now feel unsafe in the very spaces designed to offer cultural solace. Despite calls from activists for dialogue, the National Gallery has made it clear that protecting its staff, visitors, and collection remains the top priority.
The new security protocols aim to strike a delicate balance between ensuring public access to one of the world’s greatest art collections while safeguarding against the growing trend of protest-related attacks. As the debate over climate activism and cultural spaces continues, the National Gallery’s response reflects the difficult decisions many institutions are being forced to make in an increasingly volatile landscape.
