In a statement, the Gallery released photos of the damage and clarified that the MP violently seized and threw the artworks to the floor, resulting in their destruction.

According to the Gallery, Papadopoulos, along with another individual, attacked four pieces by artist Christoforos Katsadiotis.

The Gallery’s statement strongly condemns any acts of vandalism, violence, and censorship that threaten the constitutionally protected freedom of artistic expression.

It is important to note that after the incident, Papadopoulos was released and claimed he carried out the act because the exhibition was disrespectful, particularly insulting the image of the Virgin Mary and the Saints.

National Gallery’s Official Statement:

On Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:35 AM, the National Gallery – Alexandros Soutzos Museum was attacked by Nikos Papadopoulos, a Member of Parliament from the “NIKI” party. With the help of another individual, Papadopoulos attacked four works by Christoforos Katsadiotis, titled: “Eikonisma 1,” “Eikonisma 16,” “Eikonisma 17,” and “Saint Christopher.” These artworks were displayed in the mezzanine as part of the “Intermediate Space” program in the exhibition titled The Charm of the Strange. The assailants violently ripped the artworks off the wall and threw them to the floor, causing significant damage.

Following the attack, the National Gallery’s Board of Directors convened urgently and issued the following statement:

The institutional role of the National Gallery – Alexandros Soutzos Museum is to collect, protect, showcase, and document artistic creation.

In this context, and with respect for the free expression of art, the Board of Directors expresses its trust in the Gallery’s management and supports its approved artistic program, ensuring a dialogue between different trends, movements, and artistic opinions.

We unequivocally condemn any acts of vandalism, violence, and censorship that undermine the constitutionally protected freedom of artistic expression.

The Destruction at the National Gallery:

Papadopoulos and his accomplice violently threw the artworks to the floor, resulting in their destruction. The artworks damaged include:

The National Gallery has shared images of the damaged works, highlighting the extent of the vandalism.