Shark By David Cerny Analysis

David Cerny’s “Shark” (3.5) - Matthew George

The artwork “Shark” by David Cerny was created in the year 2005 and was originally planned to be exhibited in the 2006 Beaufort Modern Arts Festival. However, after taking into consideration that backlash that might occur due to the artwork, the piece instead was put into a museum for modern art in Oostende. Cerny is known for making his political opinions heard through his many different artworks such as his opposition to communism as a Czech. The shock effect that many of Cerny’s pieces provide, is no surprise as a considerable number have been deemed as controversial. “Shark” was one of the many pieces that stirred controversy both nationally and internationally. Many different perspectives have formed from the day
David Cerny the creator of the “Shark” held the perspective that this artwork would accurately portray Saddam as the brute that he was. The Mayor of Middelkerke, was a firm opponent to having the piece being publicly displayed. Arguing that the piece was not suitable for viewing by families with young children. Another viewpoint of this controversial artwork is held by the writer, Christina Mitchell. Mitchell holds the viewpoint that this artwork is controversial in nature but that it is inspired by elements of different cultures that are related to the themes that the artwork contains. These perspectives lead into why the artwork “Shark” was considered as controversial because of the the many different interpretations it had developed in society. However, in today’s world, society has changed and the demographic of these communities may look at the artwork in a different light