Artist rejects award over censorship of opinions supporting Palestinians
Arab-American artist Fareed Armaly has rejected Kaethe Kollwitz Award, protesting censorship of opinions supporting Palestinians in Germany.
The Academy of Arts said it regretted his decision.
Armaly, in a letter, criticised what he called Germany’s “reactionary” cultural policies, accusing institutions of silencing Palestinian rights advocates.
He condemned what he said was the “intolerable interference” and “self-censorship” in cultural spaces, saying it dehumanises Palestinians by erasing their voices.
Germany, a strong ally of Israel, has tightened restrictions on free-Palestine events, banning protests and canceling cultural gatherings.
Critics say Berlin supports Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies while ignoring war crimes in Gaza.
Armaly, a renowned curator and artist, has showcased his work in major international exhibitions, including Documenta 11.
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