National Gallery bans liquids to counter art ‘attacks’

A ban on visitors bringing liquids into the National Gallery has been introduced in response to recent attacks on paintings within the venue.

A statement issued by the art gallery said that, as of today (18 October), visitors will be allowed to take only baby formula, expressed milk, and prescription medicines inside.

“Since July 2022, the National Gallery alone has been the victim of five separate attacks on iconic paintings such as Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers, John Constable’s The Hay Wain and Velázquez’s Rokeby Venus,” the statement said.

“Such attacks have caused physical damage to the artworks, distress to visitors and staff alike, and disruption to our mission to ensure great art is available for everyone, everywhere to enjoy.

“Two of these attacks have happened in the last two weeks, and that is why we have taken the difficult and unfortunate decision to change the way we operate for the foreseeable future.

“We urge all visitors to bring minimal items with them, including no large bags. All doors into the gallery have walk-through metal detectors where we will inspect bags and rucksacks.

“We anticipate it will take longer than usual to access the Gallery, and we apologise for this inconvenience.

“We are sorry that visitors are, for the time being, not going to receive the welcome we would very much like to extend to them, but we hope that they understand why it is necessary for us to do this.”

A spokesperson for Just Stop Oil, whose supporters threw soup over two Vincent van Gogh paintings last month, has proposed a meeting with the National Gallery’s director and promised to “leave the soup at home”.