The entrance on the north side of Trafalgar Square. The newer Sainsbury Wing can be seen at the far left. Founded in 1824, the National Gallery contains over 2300 paintings, dating from the 13th century to 1900. The new National Gallery security measures will protect art and visitors.   Photo: Nathan Hughes Hamilton Via Wikimedia cc-by-2.0.

As protests escalate, the National Gallery security measures are critical steps to help preserve art and
promote visitor safety.

BY ARTCENTRON NEWS

National Gallery Security Measures Confronts Rising Threats

TRAFALGAR SQUARE, LONDON-On October 18, the National Gallery in London began tightening its security protocols. In response to recent protests targeting its iconic artworks, the museum has announced a ban on liquids and large bags on its premises. This decision follows a series of high-profile attacks on renowned paintings, with five incidents reported since July 2022. Notably, Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers was vandalized just days ago by activists from Just Stop Oil. This painting is currently in the exhibition Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers. The same group also targeted another Sunflowers canvas, on loan from the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Other artworks under threat include John Constable’s The Hay Wain and Velázquez’s Rokeby Venus.

Museum’s Commitment to Safety

The National Gallery expressed deep concern for the safety of its visitors and staff. “We have reached a point where we must protect our collection,” the museum stated. “These attacks have caused significant distress and physical damage.”

Starting Friday at 10 a.m., the new security measures took effect. Visitors can no longer bring liquids, except for baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medications. Additionally, they are encouraged to limit their belongings and avoid large bags. All guests must pass through metal detectors, and bags will be thoroughly checked.

Understanding the Necessity of Changes

The museum acknowledged the inconvenience these measures may cause. “Our collection is irreplaceable,” they noted. “To safeguard these fragile works for future generations, we may need to increase security barriers.”

The National Gallery’s new policies follow a letter from prominent museum directors, including Gabriele Finaldi, Tristram Hunt of the V&A, and Nicholas Cullinan of the British Museum. They urged climate protestors to reconsider their methods, stating that these actions harm the reputation of UK museums and create an unsafe environment for visitors and staff.

Just Stop Oil Activists’ Response

In response, Just Stop Oil and Youth Demand reached out, offering to meet with museum directors to discuss their concerns. “We have individuals ready to talk about the urgent need to end fossil fuel dependence,” they stated, humorously noting they would “leave the soup at home.”

The outcome of this proposed meeting remains uncertain. Meanwhile, since 2022, major art institutions worldwide have faced similar disruptions, with activists targeting masterpieces like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

National Gallery Security Measures for Art and Visitors

As the National Gallery enhances its security measures, it emphasizes the importance of protecting art while ensuring visitor safety. The ongoing dialogue between museum officials and activist groups could shape future protests and strategies, impacting how both sides approach these critical issues.

By implementing these changes, the National Gallery aims to preserve its invaluable collection for future generations while balancing the need for public discourse on pressing environmental matters.

What do you think about the new National Gallery Security Measures? Share your thoughts. Leave a comment.