Volume I, Issue 46
April 20 - April 27, 1998

The books of photographer Jock Sturges have ignited several censorship cases in America's southern states. Why? Because his pictures include shots of naked children. That's kiddie porn, bubba. Both Barnes & Noble and Border's book chain, which carry Sturges' works, have been challenging the statutes that make this illegal. The ensuing battle has been quite revealing (no pun intended).

Beneath all the dry legalese and partisan warfare lay some intriguing questions: What makes something obscene? Specifically, when does an image of a nude child become sick and pedophilic, rather than beautiful and natural? And how do issues of consent and intention play into the controversy?

In Europe, of course, the sexual qualities of the young are revered instead of considered taboo. Past cultures celebrated youthful sexuality. What is Donatello's "David" if not an eroticization of young manhood? So why are we so uptight?

These are among the questions Sturges addresses, and addresses well, in this interview. The artist gives compelling reasons why his work, if not all potentially erotic photographs of children and other people, should be considered art rather than pornography.

What do you think? As usual, I'm interested in hearing your views. Email me at this address, or contribute your opinions to our Talk Back forum. Don't be shy!

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