A gallery has defended displaying artworks in its window of Batman and Superman kissing – following “bonkers” claims it could “morally corrupt” children.
The series of screenprints by artist Rich Simmons, entitled ‘Between the Capes’, is on sale at Castle Fine Art in Canterbury, with prints priced at £695, while a similar mixed-media painting is going for £5,950.
One version frames the superheroes embracing in the reflection of a teary-eyed onlooker’s sunglasses, while another shows them locking lips on the front page of the New York Times.
But in a letter sent to the Burgate gallery, resident Christopher Nevill deplores what he believes to be the “sexualisation” of childhood idols and the effect the images may have on his own young twins.
“I was horrified to find a picture in your window depicting two male superheroes, Batman and Superman, in an embrace as if they were just about to kiss,” wrote Mr Neville, 63.
“I am appalled at the moral corruption of such young minds to show their superheroes in this depiction.
“Can you please remove this picture from your shop window? I do not want my seven-year-old twins to see it on our way to and from school.”
Gallery staff told KentOnline that since the artwork went on display on September 12, it has generated considerable interest, and many copies have been sold.
Managing director Ian Weatherby-Blythe defended Castle Fine Art’s mission to “challenge perceptions and inspire discussion”.
“The artist’s intention is not to sexualise these characters, but to reimagine familiar cultural icons in a way that reflects the diversity of human relationships,” he explained.
Asked to clarify his concerns, Mr Nevill said: “It sexualises children under the age of 10 by encouraging them to experiment with what they have seen of their superheroes.
“What’s going to be next, sexualising the Teletubbies?”
But Canterbury Pride co-founder Edd Withers dismissed the concerns as “bonkers”.
He added: “Canterbury is a very diverse city and it’s exciting to see art getting people talking, even if they are rather prudish about it.”
In a promotional video, Rich Simmons explains that the work aims to provoke thought about judging people by their actions, rather than their sexuality.
“If you were in a burning building and someone was coming to save your life, would it matter – whether it was a superhero, a fireman, a policeman – whether they’re gay or not?” asks the UK-based ‘pop-punk’ artist.
“Or are you going to judge them on the fact that they’re willing to put their lives at harm’s risk to come and save you?
“You should focus on that side of things – that’s the heroic thing. What they choose to do between the capes, that’s for them.”
Castle Fine Art says it has no plans to remove the works from the ongoing exhibition.
Mr Weatherby-Blythe added: “At Castle Fine Art, we believe strongly in the power of art to challenge perceptions and inspire discussion.
“While we recognise that not every piece will resonate with every viewer, we are committed to providing a platform for artists to express themselves authentically.”
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