BP is famous for a couple things in today's society, mainly being the massive oil spills that have caused mass destruction of the environment and natural wildlife. They also, however, contribute millions to the arts in the UK. The Oil company just released plans to further contribute (the UK symbol for $) 10 million to four major art institutions in the country through 2017. Some people disagree though, including a couple artist/trustees who were quoted as saying "BP is a disgrace."
Now, I can see why you may dislike the company or be against promoting them, but I really find it a bit ridiculous when groups bite the very hand that feeds them. I understand BP isn't the greatest company in the world and has done some bad things...but they just offered to GIVE you 10 million in donations to help the arts, something that is severely under-funded around the world. They just did something good...and those trustees apparently feel that, no matter what efforts they now make, it's not enough to get over the fact that they've done some bad at some point.
I realize that some things are simply un-forgivable. Some things are so heinous that no amount of goodwill can make you forget...but this isn't one of those moments for me. For me, this is a huge donation and something that artists should appreciate. While you don't have to embrace BP, you should at least recognize how much the money will help. It's like needing money to pay your rent and then denying a check from your dad because he missed your graduation.
Sure...it's the principle of the matter, but theres also facing reality & facts and picking your battles...sometimes fighting everyone and everything that isn't 100% on your level isn't beneficial, and sometimes you just have to take the good with the bad...and pick a better time (maybe NOT when they are donating 10 million euros to the arts) to state your point.
http://www.theartnewspaper.com/articles/BP-to-give-£10m-to-four-UK-arts-institutions/25299
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