CENSORED

Well, here's something I never thought I'd see. Egawa + Zbryk artwork censored. Awhile back, Rie submitted art and was chosen for Missouri Banks "Art Boards". The Art Boards are part of the Arts Through Architecture program which is a partnership of the American Institute of Architects - Kansas City and the Charlotte Street Foundation. The Art Boards are a pair of double sided billboards above Missouri Banks Crossroads location. Every 4 months newly commissioned art is displayed by two different artist. Missouri Bank received a "Gold Level Art Achievement" from the Arts Through Architecture program for their commissioning of exterior sculptures by Jesse Small and the donating of billboard space for the exhibition of art by local artist. I've gotta say, I appreciate Missouri Bank's support of local artist, but it boggles my mind that somebody felt this image was too controversial to display. REALLY? MoBank is a private business and it's totally their right to decide what images they'll use on their billboards, but I'm really disappointed that a business that claims to be so "progressive" and a strong supporter of the arts would censor an artwork promoting anti-violence. Rie was not the only artists billboard that was rejected. Pete Cowdin's aka A. Bitterman's art that was to be on the opposite side of Rie's was also nixed. I've read A. Bitterman has rented a billboard across from MoBank and still plans on displaying his art. I guess the lesson here is if you're an artist planning on submitting art for the Art Boards, be sure it's happy art devoid of any message or meaning. Did anything good come out of this? Well, they still paid us ;)

Right Billboard

Left Billboard