Cattelan defends activists who vandalized his 'L.O.V.E.' sculpture in Milan

Three activists from Ultima Generazione face trial for throwing washable paint on Maurizio Cattelan's sculpture 'L.O.V.E.' (the middle finger) in Piazza Affari, Milan, on January 15, 2023. Cattelan stated he felt neither offended nor damaged, noting the paint was removable and the work was restored to its original state. The artist also said he believes the activists had no aggressive intent toward him or the artwork. Despite Cattelan's stance and the prosecutor Paola Biondillo's request for dismissal due to the minor nature of the act, Judge Giulio Fanales ordered the trial to begin on March 18, 2024, on charges of defacing cultural property. The Municipality of Milan, to which Cattelan donated the work in 2012, will join as a civil party seeking compensation. The case has reignited debate on Italy's treatment of climate protests. In April 2023, the government proposed the 'eco-vandal' bill, which imposes fines of €10,000–€40,000 and prison sentences of 1–6 months for damaging cultural heritage. The bill passed the Senate in July 2023 and the Chamber of Deputies on January 18, 2024. Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, a strong supporter, stated that vandals will now have to pay for full restoration costs.