P.E.I. vet college apologizes for asking artist to remove piece showing lemmings and U.S. flag

The Atlantic Veterinary College has issued an apology to its former artist-in-residence, Christopher Griffin, who recently resigned after being asked to remove a painting that he claims was censored due to its political message. The painting in question, titled “The Crossing,” depicted a boat full of lemmings carrying a discoloured American flag across an icy Canadian waterway.

Griffin, who had been enjoying his residency at the college, decided to create more politically charged art in response to recent statements and actions by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, the college received three complaints about the painting, including two from American faculty members. As a result, Griffin was asked to remove the artwork immediately, but he chose to leave his residency instead.

The decision to ask Griffin to remove the painting was deemed a mistake by the college, as it did not align with their institutional values of promoting free expression and fostering understanding through art. Many students, faculty, and community members expressed disappointment with the administration’s actions, with some even signing a thank-you card in support of the artist.

In response to the backlash, the Atlantic Veterinary College has offered a direct apology to Griffin and extended an invitation for him to speak about his work on campus. They have also expressed a commitment to reviewing their internal processes to ensure that future decisions uphold their dedication to free expression and inclusive discourse.

Griffin has accepted the apologies from the college and the University of Prince Edward Island, where the college is based. He has agreed to participate in a roundtable discussion at the university to discuss his artwork and the importance of freedom of expression. In an Instagram post, Griffin expressed his gratitude for the support he has received and his belief in the strength of Canadians coming together in troubled times.

Overall, the incident has shed light on the passion that Canadians have for their country and the values they hold dear, including the freedom of expression. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to challenge, provoke dialogue, and unite people in shared values and beliefs.