Channel 4 buys painting by Adolf Hitler, Jimmy Carr may burn it on 'Art Trouble'

Channel 4 has bought a painting by Adolf Hitler, which comedian Jimmy Carr may be allowed to destroy with a flamethrower. The TV channel has bought artworks created by controversial artists, which include the likes of Hitler, Pablo Picasso, Rolf Harris, and Eric Gill. The 92-year-old Rolf Harris is a convicted paedophile, while Eric Gill is a sexual abuser.



The TV channel will be airing a unique debate show called ‘Art Trouble’ that will commence next month. The show will raise the question of whether we can separate art from the creators, after which a public vote will be called on whether the artwork must be destroyed or not. The channel’s director, Ian Katz, stated that the studio audience would decide whether Channel 4 should keep Hitler’s painting or let Jimmy Carr set it ablaze.


Speaking to The Guardian, Channel 4’s Ian Katz said there were supporters of all art pieces, including Hitler’s painting. He stated that these supporters argued that the moral character of the artist mustn’t decide whether an artwork should exist or not. Katz added that Art Trouble was in alignment with the Channel’s tradition of iconoclasm and irreverence, like previous shows, including Drug Live.

Channel 4 bought artworks of controversial artists from reputed auction houses, which also included the painting by Adolf Hitler. The British TV channel will also be celebrating its 40th anniversary in November.

FAQs

When will Art Trouble be aired?
The debate show will begin next month, which also marks Channel 4’s 40th anniversary.

Who are the controversial artists selected for the show?
The artworks up for debate on Art Trouble are creations of controversial artists like Adolf Hitler, Pablo Picasso, Rolf Harris, and Eric Gill.