A mural in a Fitzroy laneway depicting a bound and gagged woman has caused a major controversy over the past few days.
Titled Kinbakubi , the artwork was painted by Los Angeles-based queer artist Lauren YS and is said to be inspired by Japanese shibari rope art. It was commissioned by a local photographer specializing in queer and sex worker-safe content.
Lauren YS, who uses they/them pronouns, described the piece as a celebration of queer identity and empowerment, noting that it was installed in a low-traffic area with tenant approval.
However, the mural has drawn more than 1,000 complaints to the Yarra City Council. Critics, including advocacy group Collective Shout, argue that the artwork glamorises violence against women and is inappropriate for public display, especially near families and children.
Some survivors of sexual assault have reported finding the mural triggering. The council is currently investigating the matter, emphasising that responsibility lies with the property owner. The mural has also been defaced amid the ongoing debate.
This incident underscores the complex tensions between artistic freedom, community standards, and public space usage.
Lauren YS, known for exploring themes of queerness and Asian-American identity in their work, has previously created murals in Fitzroy, including a tiger mural at the corner of Chapel and Johnston streets.
