Artist Rune Furelid sparks controversy in Ålesund with provocative artwork of Israel’s Prime Minister

Artist Rune Furelid has displayed a provocative artwork in Ålesund portraying Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, as Adolf Hitler. This exhibition has sparked intense reactions both locally and internationally.

Avi Nir-Feldklein, Israel’s ambassador to Norway, expressed his shock and disappointment regarding the painting, asserting that it tarnishes Norway’s reputation. Furelid has faced a mix of criticism and support for his work, emphasizing that he aims to use his voice as an artist to highlight what he believes is significant. Despite the attention, the painting remains unsold, although the artist is considering auctioning it off, with proceeds going to Doctors Without Borders.

Furelid describes one extreme reaction where a tourist from the U.S. verbally assaulted him in the gallery. The artwork displays Netanyahu in a Nazi uniform with a small mustache, accompanied by the phrase, “Do unto others as others do unto you.”

The ambassador criticized the painting on social media for distorting the Holocaust and mocking the recent October 7 massacre, claiming it reflects poorly on Norway. He recounted receiving messages from numerous Israeli tourists and Norwegians expressing their dismay.

In response, Furelid stated that while many have opinions about his work, he stands firm in his stance against war and insists that his art targets Netanyahu, not Jewish people at large. He recognizes that his work can provoke controversy but maintains that it serves to raise awareness of critical issues.

Although several interested parties have approached him, Furelid has not sold the painting yet but is contemplating its auction to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza.