‘Black Swan‘ director – and current Jennifer Lawrence squeeze – Darren Aronofsky has taken to Twitter to apologise for the ad for his latest film ‘mother!‘, which apparently required painting over an iconic Sydney mural.
He also promised to front up the dosh for artist Colin Bebe to replace the 20-year-old ‘It’s Like A Jungle Sometimes‘ mural in Sydney’s Newtown, raising awareness of youth suicide and depression, based on ‘The Message‘ by Grandmaster Flash and Furious Five.
just read of ad agency in sydney breaking #1 graffiti rule. i’m embarrassed & furious. apologies to Bebe & I’ll pay to replace piece.
— darren aronofsky (@DarrenAronofsky) September 7, 2017
Much to Aronofsky’s chagrin, Melbourne ad agency Apparition Media last week decided it would be a good idea to paint a big-arse mural promoting the director’s latest creepy-as-hell, booed-at-Venice, psychological thriller directly on top of a long-standing mural on Newtown’s Enmore Road – without approval from Inner West Council.
In response to public outcry, the ad agency has apologised for their “honest mistake” and vowed to collaborate with Bebe on restoring the OG mural “after we complete the final stage of this mural“. They’ll do this by covering all costs, helping him to paint it, and by assisting in promoting both the work and its themes.
Apparition also intend to raise money for a local charity working to raise awareness of youth suicide, to be chosen by Bebe. The hotline number for suicide prevention organisation Lifeline will also be included on the repainted mural.
The ad agency have since been accused by prominent Aussie street artists of painting over other pieces of public art in Brisbane and Sydney, but have denied the allegations.
Inner West Council will still be investigating the J-Law ‘mother!‘ ad, which it did not approve, saying that it may infringe upon a prohibition against ads in “heritage areas“. Apparition could be fined $6000.
