P.E.I. vet college admits mistake for asking artist to remove painting based on U.S. politics [Video]

The Atlantic Veterinary College has apologized to its former artist-in-residence who quit after being asked to take down a painting he says was censored by the Charlottetown institution due to its political message.

In a statement, the college acknowledged that asking Christopher Griffin to choose between removing his painting, The Crossing, or leaving his residency “was a mistake.”

“The decision did not reflect our institutional values, and we regret the hurt and frustration it caused. Art plays an essential role in education and public life — it challenges us, encourages dialogue, and fosters understanding,” the statement reads.

“We fell short of our responsibility to protect that role.”

Painting received 3 complaints

Griffin, who moved to Prince Edward Island from Ottawa in 2023, became the regional college’s first-ever artist-in-residence last November.

The unpaid position gave him the opportunity to brighten up some of the UPEI-based college’s community spaces. 

While animals are a recurring theme in his work, Griffin said his focus shifted starting in January when Donald Trump was …