Monument Research

 

I found an article that discusses the deconstruction of "Monument to Humanity"in Istanbul, Turkey by Turkish artist Bedri Baykam.  The monument became a symbol of the hatred and animosity between Turkey and Armenia.  Turkey has refuted history regarding the mass killings of Armenians under Ottoman rule.  The two party Turkish government, half pious Muslim Nationalist and Secularists, are in heavy competition for upcoming elections.


The Prime Minister had described the monument as "freak" and promptly the city council voted to dismantle the monument.  The 35 foot monument was in relative proximity to an Islamic Mosque which also stirred the pot.  For a country so desperate to join the European Union, one could argue that their appreciation and value of Art might need a little improvement.  Baykam, an ultrasecularist said this action would make the Art World view Turkey as the Taliban and since has become an avid spokesperson for Turkey-Armenia reconciliation.

In addition Baykam was stabbed by a man who was quoted saying “I cannot stand Bedri Baykam. That’s why I stabbed him. I don’t like his opinions.”

Read more: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Apr/21/Monument-to-Humanity-public-art-to-be-demolished.ashx#ixzz1M5XkbTxO
(The Daily Star :: Lebanon News :: http://www.dailystar.com.lb) 


I was interested in this topic because we've been discussing how the meanings of monuments change as they exist in their space.  I find it incredible that people can find so much personal offense in political commentary that has no definitive meaning.  It doesn't say "The Turkish Government are assholes because they are refuting the mass genocide of Armenians".  It was a beautiful work (though unfinished):

It's interesting that usually the meaning of a monument will be changed if it is disapproved by the public; in this case the monument was deconstructed and the artist was stabbed.