An explosive device was detonated on Thursday afternoon at the residence of controversial artist Giorgos Gavriel in Kokkinotrimithia, police have confirmed.
- An explosive device was detonated on Thursday afternoon at the residence of controversial artist Giorgos Gavriel in Kokkinotrimithia, police have confirmed.
The incident occurred around 6pm when a motorcyclist drove past Gavriel’s home and threw two firecrackers onto the outside veranda before speeding away. Fortunately, neither Gavriel nor anyone else was injured during the incident, as confirmed by police.
Local media reports indicate that the explosive device was described as a makeshift one, with police later clarifying that two factory-grade firecrackers containing low-explosive material were involved.
This incident follows a wave of controversy surrounding Gavriel, whose recent exhibition was cancelled due to public backlash. His artwork, which features religious figures such as Christ and the Virgin Mary depicted in unconventional and provocative manners, has drawn criticism from various political parties and community members who labelled it as obscene.
The exhibition’s cancellation was announced by the gallery, citing significant opposition from a section of society. One particular painting, which controversially portrays Jesus Christ with his genitals exposed while holding a Bible, has been especially contentious.
In the wake of the exhibition’s cancellation, Gavriel expressed feelings of intimidation and terror, alleging that he had received threats, including a video posted online by a candidate from the far-right Elam party. This video has since been removed.
As police continue to investigate the explosive incident, they are also looking into the broader context of the threats against Gavriel, raising concerns about the safety of artists who challenge societal norms.
