A Mural on Margate seafront has been criticised by councillors. The picture is on the wall of a disused coffee bar by Arlington Arcade and is the work of artist Jimmy Caulty who is a former member of iconic dance band and self-styled ‘art terrorists’ KLF.

This mural has raised the hackles of councillors from both major political parties and was later defaced with the message saying “This Is Not Art”.

The mural was put up as part of the two-week Margate Rocks arts festival and has been described by curator Jessica Baum as an “excellent and thought-provoking work aimed at raising awareness of ecological issues.” Jessica said that “no way reflected Margate as it is today - it has lovely sandy beaches and is an area with regeneration happening all around the town. But it has made people think and talk and discuss, and that is what art is supposed to do.”

Cllr Mick Tomlinson who is the Deputy mayor of Margate said that “It doesn’t do any favours to Margate at all. We are working extremely hard on regeneration packages and this doesn’t create a good impression. It shows up and tarnishes the town that we are trying to rejuvenate.”

What do you think is this art?

source