Introduction

New York’s renowned Lévy Gorvy Dayan gallery, known for its contributions to the art world, has become the epicentre of a fervent controversy following a statement posted on its windows. The gallery’s founders, Dominique Lévy, Brett Gorvy, and Amalia Dayan, are facing backlash and accusations of vandalism, prompting a cascade of events that have roiled the art community.

The Artforum Letter and Response

The catalyst for the controversy emerged with the publication of an Artforum letter signed by thousands of artists. This letter called for art institutions to address Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza. In response, Lévy Gorvy Dayan’s founders issued a statement expressing their distress over the Artforum letter. They criticized it for allegedly overlooking a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the tragic death of 1,200 Israelis.

Upheaval at Artforum

The controversy took a new turn with upheaval within Artforum’s editorial process. Editor David Velasco was reportedly fired after another letter, advocating for empathy in the aftermath of the Hamas attack, was published without the knowledge of certain staff members. The incident highlights the tense atmosphere surrounding discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the impact on journalistic integrity.

Vandalism and Apology Confusion

Recently, the gallery faced a peculiar twist when messages were affixed to its windows, seemingly offering an apology for its earlier statement. However, Lévy Gorvy Dayan swiftly disassociated itself from the message, categorizing it as an act of vandalism. The message apologised for contributing to a “chilling, censorial environment around pro-Palestinian voices” and invited the original signatories to join them in advocating for justice.

Gallery’s Clarification

In response to the unauthorised message on its facade, Lévy Gorvy Dayan emphasised that the statement did not represent its views. The gallery’s priority, it stated, is the safety of its staff, artists, and patrons. This incident sheds light on the delicate intersection of art, politics, and freedom of expression, prompting a broader conversation within the art community about the responsibilities and boundaries of art institutions in navigating politically charged issues.

Conclusion

As the controversy surrounding Lévy Gorvy Dayan gallery continues to unfold, it underscores the challenges faced by art institutions when engaging with sensitive geopolitical issues. The incident prompts reflection on the role of galleries in the broader societal dialogue, the consequences of statements made, and the complexities of balancing artistic expression with political sensitivities.

Feature Image: Lévy Gorvy Dayan’s windows were pasted with messages that appeared to apologise for a prior statement by its founders on a letter published by Artforum. VIA WRITERS AGAINST THE WAR ON GAZA/INSTAGRAM

Olivia Colman and Over 1,300 Artists Accuse Cultural Institutions of Censorship on Palestine