Brisbane Artist Contacted by Police Over Artworks Allegedly Violating New Queensland Hate Speech Laws
James Hillier, a visual artist based in Brisbane who operates under the name Nordacious, has been contacted by Queensland police regarding artworks they allege breach newly enacted state hate speech legislation. Hillier was informed that he could potentially face jail time for some of his designs created in support of Palestine, leading him to remove three specific pieces from his website.
Police Intervention and Legal Implications
The artist reported receiving a call from police on 25 March, approximately two weeks after Queensland became the first Australian state to outlaw slogans such as "from the river to the sea" and "globalise the intifada." These phrases are commonly used to express solidarity with Palestine. Under the controversial laws introduced by the Crisafulli government, expressing or publishing these slogans—if deemed to "menace, harass or offend"—can result in penalties of up to two years in prison.
Hillier described the experience as shocking, noting that he arrived at work to find a missed call from authorities. Upon returning the call, police informed him that a formal complaint had been lodged against his artworks, though they did not specify which pieces were involved. He stated, "They didn't identify any specific piece – they said some of my artworks had allegedly been in violation of the new laws."
Artworks in Question and Their Removal
Among the artworks Hillier removed is a drawing featuring a woman with the phrase "from the river to the sea" printed on her singlet, which he based on a photo of the first individual arrested under the new laws in Queensland. Another piece depicts Queensland Premier David Crisafulli pressing his finger onto a map of the state with the text: "From Brisbane River, to Moreton Bay: I'll decide what you can say." A third artwork is a colourful headshot of Australian singer John Farnham alongside a watermelon cocktail and the words "River to the Sea," a playful reference to the chorus from the 1990s hit "Two Strong Hearts."
Hillier explained that he created the Crisafulli and Farnham drawings before the hate speech laws were passed, intending them as commentary on the unfolding political situation. He expressed concern over the vagueness of the legislation, noting, "It's not just those direct words but similar words and similar phrases that could be interpreted as being connected to that banned phrase."
Context and Community Reactions
The phrase "from the river to the sea" references the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, often accompanied by the statement "Palestine will be free." Meanwhile, "globalise the intifada" uses an Arabic term meaning uprising, associated with past conflicts against Israel. Interpretations vary widely: while some Jewish groups view these slogans as calls to violence, Palestinians and their supporters often see them as symbols of resistance against oppression.
Hillier, known for using a nostalgic, pop-art influenced style to comment on politics and culture, emphasised his commitment to advocating for Palestine while navigating the precarious legal landscape. He remarked, "I think it's a deeply sad place for Australia, for our democracy. Art's always been the place that political truths can be shared." He believes the matter may be resolved due to his cooperation in removing the artworks, but he continues to seek legal advice.
Police Statement and Further Investigations
Queensland police confirmed they are investigating a complaint related to prohibited expressions featured in online artwork, describing the matter as ongoing. Additionally, they are separately aware of a mural in south Brisbane with similar imagery and are investigating further. A police spokesperson stated, "The QPS strongly condemn anyone who incites hatred within our community – there is no place for it. QPS supports legislation which prioritises community safety."
This case highlights the tensions between free expression and new regulatory measures in Queensland, raising questions about the impact on artistic and political discourse in the region.
