In a bold move to protect Julian Assange, artist Andrei Molodkin threatened to destroy 16 renowned artworks, including pieces by Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol, using an ‘extremely corrosive’ substance if Assange perished in prison. This plan, known as ‘Dead Man’s Switch’, aimed to safeguard Assange’s life by holding the masterpieces hostage. The threat not only shocked the art world, but Molodkin claims it also played a crucial role in securing Assange’s release. The pressure of potentially losing priceless art forced action and brought attention to Assange’s plight. Now, as Assange walks free, Molodkin seeks to return the artworks to their rightful owners, relieved that his plan was successful in protecting both art and life.
The Threat to Destroy Picasso and Warhol Masterpieces: How it Influenced Julian Assange’s Release
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