Naked Venus banned from the Tube
Benedict Moore-Bridger, Evening Standard13.02.08
A portrait of a naked venus has been banned from London Underground stations after worries it will offend commuters.
The picture - intended to be the main poster for a Royal Academy of Arts show - was thrown out after concerns it breached advertising guidelines on sex and nudity.
Lucas Cranach the Elder's Venus, wearing a necklace, see-through shawl and a hint of a smile, was to be displayed to promote an exhibition on the 16th-century German artist.
But it was deemed potentially offensive to passengers and the Royal Academy says it is trying to find a "less naked" alternative image. A spokesman said: "We don't have a version B where she's got her clothes on. We're just hoping they change their minds and accept her."
A spokesman for London Underground said: "We have to take account of the full range of travellers and endeavour not to cause offence in the advertising on display."
Reader views (13)
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I agree, there is nothing wrong with the painting of a nude woman. It is beautiful. Ken and co will do anything to get those votes - even if it means dragging us all back to the repression and hypocrisy of our hideous past - a past that our predecessors’ gave blood to change for the benefit of a free society.
- Ivegotanasbo, London
It's OK to show posters celebrating guns and violence in movies, and photos of women wearing next to nothing advertising holidays, but not a 16th Century painting. Ken Livingstone's PC thought police strike again.
- Ian, London
Ha ha, I thought that too Marc!
Ridiculous - another example of the British populace being treated like children!
- Spike, Bucks, UK















