Belfast International Wall mural plan leads to artist being threatened

A well known Belfast mural artist has been threatened over a planned Gaza mural.

In a statement issued by Sinn Féin, Paul Maskey says the threats were made against Danny Devenney who is due to paint the new mural on the International Wall on the Falls Road.

The West Belfast Westminster candidate says a number of men visited Mr Devenney's home and threatened him, allegedly telling him "he must put their mural up, which is linked to the political group Saoradh".

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The "despicable" threats have been condemned Mr Maskey who has called for them to be withdrawn.

Paul Maskey said: “World renowned and hugely respected mural artist Danny Devenney has been painting the International Wall along with local and international artists for decades now.

“The wall is a canvass for social justice issues. It is one of Belfast’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting interest with tour groups and visitors the world over.

“Danny Devenney and a team of local and international artists, have recently transformed the wall in response to the horrific genocide taking place in Gaza.

“Danny and his team had consulted with local residents and various campaign groups who had their own messages on the wall. All agreed to support the ground-breaking Gaza initiative, murals would be replaced at a later date.

“However, a number of men visited his home and threatened him, told him they have no interest in Palestine and that he must put their mural up, which is linked to the political group Saoradh.

“I am calling for the threat to be removed immediately and for Danny and his team to continue their critical solidarity work highlighting the horrific genocide in Gaza.

“Threats against our cultural and artistic community involved in vital solidarity work are despicable and do nothing to advance any cause. I’m confident the people of West Belfast will stand in solidarity with Danny and his team and with the people of Palestine.”

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