Camden Council removed 40 portraits of council dignitaries
dating back to the 19th century. The paintings were seen as “too
white” and did not reflect the “modern and diverse”
community.
Editor's comment: A
fine example of condemning something for not being something it was never
meant to be, and of trying to purge the past. Of course portraits of Aldermen
and Town Clerks from the 1800’s don’t reflect modern Camden!
What they do reflect is a continuity of civic pride and service - they
should act as an inspiration to modern councillors and council workers.
Perhaps on second thoughts,
their removal is a kindness. Having to gaze down, day after day, on the
bizarre and unlovely creatures that inhabit Camden Town Hall these days
is enough to make even a Victorian portrait weep.
