ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Court Acquits Artist for Macron Beheading Painting

other · 2026-05-22

On May 21, 2026, the Pointe-à-Pitre criminal court acquitted François Moulin, known as 'Blow', who was charged over a painting depicting the beheading of French President Emmanuel Macron. The case was decided the day before the report. Moulin faced trial for the artwork, which was considered by some as a threat against the head of state. The court's decision to relax (acquit) Moulin marks a significant moment for freedom of artistic expression in France, especially concerning political satire and controversial imagery.

Key facts

  • François Moulin, alias 'Blow', was acquitted by the Pointe-à-Pitre criminal court on May 21, 2026.
  • The case involved a painting that depicted the decapitation of Emmanuel Macron.
  • The trial took place in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe.
  • The acquittal was reported on May 22, 2026.
  • The artwork was considered potentially threatening to the president.
  • The court's decision upholds artistic freedom in political satire.
  • Moulin is known by the alias 'Blow'.
  • The painting's exact title or medium is not specified.

Entities

Artists

  • François Moulin

Institutions

  • tribunal correctionnel de Pointe-à-Pitre
  • Le Journal des Arts

Locations

  • Pointe-à-Pitre
  • France

Sources