By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Some of the country's leading artists are donating work to raise money for the legal defense of accused UB Art Professor Steven Kurtz. An auction will be held this Sunday at the Paula Cooper Gallery in New York City.
Kurtz wanted to use his art to protest the federal government's scientific policies. In a case that has captured international attention, Kurtz, and a co-defendant, were charged with scheming to obtain bacteria.
Ed Cardoni from Hallwalls says the arts community is banding together to support Kurtz's right of expression.
"It's really important for Steve Kurtz, the defendant in the case, but also all artists, and in this case also scientists and academics, to make a stand and fight this in the courts," said Cardoni. "And the only way you can do that is with good legal representation, and that's expensive."
Thw case has yet to go to trial. But some say legal fees could top $150,000.