[MSN] The Netherlands: Gay Muslim photos prompt controversy

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Gay Muslim photos prompt controversy
Published: Jan. 6, 2008 at 5:28 PM

THE HAGUE, Netherlands, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- An exhibit of photographs in the
Netherlands featuring gay men adorned with masks of the prophet Mohammed has
provoked a growing controversy.

The photos were removed by officials at The Hague's municipal museum after
the artist received death threats. But now the photographer has challenged
the facility's decision, The Sunday Times of London reported.

"The museum director was very afraid," said the artist, who goes by the
pseudonym Sooreh Hera. "He gave in to pressure from the Islamists. It is
censorship."

The Iranian exile said she had intended for her artistic works to bring
attention to the "hypocritical" attitude in many Middle Eastern countries
toward homosexuality.

Hera said though her works were met with hostility and controversy, such
reactions are occasionally associated with real art.

"Works of art can be provocative," she told the British newspaper."It is not
an artist's job just to paint flowers. Art should shine a light on social
issues."