Mary Lou Pavlovic: Protest art in action
Dr Mary Lou Pavlovic is a Canberra born artist, living in Bowral. Throughout her career Pavlovic has been involved in strategic, political exhibitions and events. In 2004 she launched a street poster project titled ‘Liar’ and in 2005 she was involved in skywriting above the MCG, both to draw attention to violence against women in football.
In 2024 Mary Lou came to Arts Law to discuss a new idea. She wanted to project a statement on a prominent landmark in the ACT. Projection is an interesting form of protest art. It may have impact, but it doesn’t permanently change the appearance or integrity of the object or structure it’s projected on. There is no Australian caselaw about it to date.
We were able to talk with Mary Lou about the legal issues that could arise for her and discuss the risks. In a fruitful conversation we covered trespass, nuisance – private and public, damage to property, special place-based laws, public safety. The plan that Mary Lou came to us with did not involve any issues of copyright or moral rights infringement – but we were sure to check.
May Lou went ahead with her plan, and we were thrilled to see her projection shared on social media by the likes of Senator David Shoebridge. The work was also publicised by Nasser Mashni (head of Australia Palestine Advocacy Network) Brisbane activist Ben Pennings, feminist Marie Coleman AO, Greg Barns SC (Julian Assange campaign). An article appeared in the Canberra Daily and Mary Lou received an email of thanks from Senator Fatima Payman.
Mary Lou had this to say about her experience:
Before I undertake any of my unauthorised public art works I always get legal advice to understand the risks involved to me. We are so lucky as artists to have access to free legal advice. Arts Law were so helpful for the American Eagle Project, “Untitled” they gave me comprehensive advice as to what could happen in a legal manner, and this affected my decision as to where to carry out my work in Canberra.
Stay tuned for new information sheets about protest and different forms of art.
