Artist Criticises ‘Absurd’ Ban on Photograph Showing Him Holding a Cigarette
A promotional poster for the largest-ever David Hockney exhibition has been banned from the Paris Metro because it features the 87-year-old artist holding a cigarette. Despite the French capital’s long-standing association with café culture and smoking, transport authorities have deemed the image inappropriate.
The exhibition, set to open next week at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, has been curated by Sir Norman Rosenthal and will feature nearly 400 of Hockney’s works across 11 rooms. However, Parisians travelling by Metro may not see advertisements for the event, as the transport network’s lawyers have objected to the promotional image.
A Puzzling Distinction
While the banned photograph shows Hockney sitting beside one of his self-portraits, which also depicts him smoking, only the photograph has been rejected. The painting itself, titled Play within a Play within a Play and Me with a Cigarette, remains part of the exhibition without issue.
Hockney expressed disbelief at the decision, calling it “complete madness.” Speaking to The Independent, he remarked, “They oppose the photograph but not the painting. The interference of those in charge of our lives is endless. Art should be about free expression, and this is simply petty.”
The Role of Smoking in Hockney’s Work
Hockney has been an outspoken defender of smoking, viewing it as a symbol of personal freedom. His father, a staunch anti-smoking advocate, was among those who opposed his habit, but for the artist, smoking remains intertwined with his approach to creativity.
Sir Norman Rosenthal commented that Hockney remains aware of the risks but resents restrictions. “He’s 87, has smoked for decades, and continues to do so. He dislikes warnings on cigarette packets and resists being told what to do. His mind, however, remains sharp as ever.”
A City of Freedom and Censorship
Paris, a city famed for revolution and artistic liberty, seems at odds with its own identity in this instance, Rosenthal argued. “To censor a poster promoting an exhibition of one of the greatest living artists is incomprehensible. The city has long stood for freedom, and this decision contradicts that spirit.”
Despite the controversy, the exhibition is expected to be a major cultural event. Running from 9 April to 31 August, it has been described as a landmark showcase of Britain’s most celebrated living painter.
