The infamous Jacob Zuma painting

[adrianh]

What's your take on this.

At first I thought it was quite funny but on reflection it does more harm than good. We speak of freedom of expression, but of course this freedom has boundaries. The problem with calling the painting art is that each and every person that has a gripe, be it with their boss or political party will then have free reign to paint this sort of stuff. Imagine the tit for tat art that political party supporters would produce; I can only imagine the art that a supporter of Cosatu would do of Helen Ziller.

All's fair in love and war but remember, if this is the case then the other side has the same rights.

[Just Gone]

I dont think anyone has the right to paint / depict someone else's private parts without their permission.

[tec0]

Well I never saw the painting; don’t think anyone will ever again. It is a shame really that people cannot see the lighter side of life anymore. But I suppose right is right wrong is wrong. Perhaps if it was done outside South Africa? I don’t know… The law will have to make a decision on it.

[Just Gone]

* Image relocated due to publications board age restriction. *

[Citizen X]

I am at a loss for words! I think Julius Malema articulates it quite effectively though:" You've got rubbish in your trousers, rubbish is what is in your trousers."

[Phil Cooper]

At least it is pointing down! With his relationships, I thought it would usually be standing to attention!

[IanF]

This shows a lack of respect for the Office of the President the First Citizen.
But doesn't JZ show the same lack of respect?

[gac]

I agree there has to be a moral boundary in everything although everyone has a different boundary I accept. Dont get me wrong I am absolutely no fan of the President at all, quite the contrary, however I thought it is pushing things too far regardless of the person it depicts or their behaviour and therefore feel its worthy of sanction.

[Citizen X]

Point taken Gac! You raise an interesting perspective!

[Dave A]

At the very least it's controversial art. But from a symbolism point of view, it's not that far off the mark - JZ is very much an alpha male.

Who's the artist?