Artist behind Putin NFT will burn Picasso, Rembrandt paintings if Assange dies+
Andrei Molodkin, a Russian artist known for his provocative and politically charged artworks, has launched a controversial art project titled 'Dead Man’s Switch,' which involves the potential destruction of valuable artworks if WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange dies in prison.
The project revolves around a 29-tonne safe containing 16 famous artworks, including pieces by Picasso, Rembrandt, and Warhol, valued at $45 million. Additionally, two barrels filled with an "extremely corrosive" substance are connected to a timer. If Assange dies in prison, the timer will activate, causing the barrels to destroy the artworks within 24 hours. However, if someone close to Assange confirms daily that he is still alive, the timer will be reset, preventing the destruction of the art.
Molodkin's project is a symbolic gesture of solidarity with Assange, who is facing extradition to the US and potential life imprisonment under the Espionage Act. Molodkin views Assange's imprisonment as a threat to freedom of expression, speech, and information.
The safe also contains works by other artists, including Santiago Sierra, Sarah Lucas, Jannis Kounellis, Jasper Johns, Jake Chapman, and pieces created by Molodkin himself. The specific artworks housed in the vault have not been disclosed.
Molodkin's previous artworks include a series of NFTs depicting Vladimir Putin covered in blood, created in support of Ukraine's defense against Russia. The NFT collection, dedicated to cities in Ukraine bombed by Russia, was showcased through augmented reality on the tanks of Red Square on Victory Day. Proceeds from the collection were intended to support UNICEF's efforts in providing blood transfusions.
Julian Assange has also been involved in virtual 'metaverse' protests, advocating against his extradition to the US. These events highlight the growing intersection between digital activism and traditional forms of protest.
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