Uproar over artwork showing same-sex cartoon characters in liplock

Sian Jones, a 25-year-old artist from Gurnsey stirred controversy after her exhibit of famous cartoon characters caught in a same-sex lip lock.

Some of the images depicted in the exhibit include The Little Mermaid’s Ariel kissing Princess Jasmine from Aladdin, while their leading men, Eric and Aladdin were also pictured kissing.

Jones’ decision to display her artwork at the Guernsey Annual Art Festival was criticized by many who said it was inappropriate as it was an even open to all ages.

Online, audiences are split. While some are not offended by the work, some say it is a little off-putting.

A local schoolteacher reportedly wrote on a Facebook page for the event: “While I’m neither a prude nor anti-gay I was a little put off. I don’t think a family event is the place to display this work. It is a little difficult to explain to toddlers why Ariel and Jasmine & Aladdin and Eric are kissing.”

One commenter on the ‘Proud Parenting’ Blog asked: “Is the event for adults only or children as well? Because I think the children will be confused about why Pocahontas and Ariel are cheating on their men. Aren’t you only supposed to kiss the person you’re with? I don’t think kids understand the concept of polygamous relationships.”

Jones engaged with critics and supporters on thisisguernsey.com in a good-humoured debate over questions of the appropriateness of the exhibition, copyright infringement and her skills as an artist, Pink News reported.

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