DA responds to Kenny Kunene's painting
The DA says it is not going to be distracted by a controversial painting depicting three senior party members.
Party spokesperson Phumzile van Damme says they do not agree with the message of the painting revealed on Twitter by businessman, Kenny Kunene.
The painting depicts a naked party leader, Mmusi Maimane pulling a rickshaw - carrying former leader Helen Zille and and federal executive chairperson James Selfe. Zille and Selfe are also exposed.
"I am now a proud owner of this masterpiece. Powerful storytelling through art. Thanks to the fearless artist," Kunene tweeted - which received impassioned responses on Twitter.
Van Damme says artistic freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution. She says they're more concerned about the last few days ahead of the elections.
Kenny Kunene is also not known for good taste (he is more than entitled to his bad taste). Hope he enjoys the painting & it brings him joy!
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) July 28, 2016
We're focused on the last 6 days of #LGE2016 & making sure we turn out voters. Not going to be distracted by a painting.
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) July 28, 2016
We're focused on the last 6 days of #LGE2016 & making sure we turn out voters. Not going to be distracted by a painting.
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) July 28, 2016
The Constitution protects artistic freedom of expression. Unlike the ANC, we're not a party that supports censorship & curtailment of rights
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) July 28, 2016
Art is meant to be provocative, offensive, etc. Not a fan of Kenny's new painting, nor the message it conveys.
— Phumzile Van Damme (@zilevandamme) July 28, 2016