Two climate activists, Timothy Martin and Joanna Smith, were arrested and charged with federal offenses relating to the vandalism of Edgar Degas’ “Little Dancer Aged Fourteen” sculpture at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C., revealed that the duo turned themselves in after being indicted for conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit.
According to the indictment, Martin and Smith, along with other members of the climate organization Declare Emergency, allegedly entered the museum with the intention of vandalizing the sculpture. They smuggled paint in plastic water bottles and recorded themselves smearing the paint on the base and protective casing of the artwork, at times forcefully impacting the nearly 143-year-old masterpiece. They even invited journalists from The Washington Post to document their actions.
The incident, which occurred on April 27, resulted in $2,400 worth of damage and necessitated the temporary removal of “Little Dancer” from public display for ten days. The National Gallery of Art Police, U.S. Park Police, and the FBI’s Art Crime Team are collaborating on the investigation.
If convicted, Martin and Smith could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each charge.
Declare Emergency, the hacking group claiming responsibility for the attack, stated that their intention was to raise awareness about the pressing issue of climate change. They emphasized the value of art in society but stressed the need to bring attention to the urgent nature of the climate crisis. The group believes that their actions create a sense of urgency, inspiring individuals to address the dire state of our planet and work towards effective solutions.
The incident prompted concerned parents to make a public statement at the National Gallery of Art, highlighting the potential consequences of climate change such as widespread starvation, flooding, drought, and destruction. Declare Emergency echoed these concerns, emphasizing the peaceful nature of their activities and their hope to inspire empathy and understanding to drive meaningful change.
The investigation into the vandalism continues as authorities seek to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.