Artist accuses P.E.I. college of censoring political painting of lemmings, U.S. flag

A photo of a painting called "The Crossing" by artist Christopher Griffin. The Crossing is a homage to the famous American painting entitled Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO Christopher Griffin **MANDATORY CREDIT**

CHARLOTTETOWN — The artist in residence at the Atlantic Veterinary College in Charlottetown has quit, saying school administrators have censored a painting they believe is too political.

In a statement posted on his website, Christopher Griffin says that administrators asked him on March 27 to remove a painting called “The Crossing,” which is part of collection titled “O Canada.”

Griffin says he was told the painting had to be removed because a couple of American faculty members were concerned it “had a political meaning.”

The painting shows lemmings gathered around an American flag as they cross an icy waterway, an image that echoes the historic painting of George Washington crossing the Delaware River during the American Revolution in 1776.

Griffin says he offered to host a public discussion to explain the intent of the artwork, but he said the college declined and told him he had to either take down the painting or leave the residency program.

The artist’s statement says public universities have a duty to uphold “respectful discourse over censorship,” particularly at a time when Canada’s existence is under threat.

Griffin was the college’s first artist in residence, and in announcing his appointment the dean noted that his work draws inspiration from the animal world.

“This initiative is an exciting opportunity to blend science and art, fostering a dynamic and inspiring environment at the college,” Dominique Griffon said in a November statement.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 10, 2025.

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