We are writing to express our collective frustration and deep concern regarding the recent work of artist Julia Buruleva in India. Following a month of documenting Indian culture, Ms. Buruleva released a series featuring a community that owns and traditionally paints elephants. This work is exceptionally flawed, reflecting a profound misunderstanding of local culture, historical context, and animal rights.

The Argument for Ethical Representation
An animal as sensitive and majestic as an elephant is not meant to be held in captivity or subjected to ownership. The reality of captive elephants in India is a byproduct of a long history of colonization, which fostered significant socioeconomic disparities and the normalization of unethical practices. Promoting or documenting the ownership of an elephant as a "tradition" to be celebrated is irresponsible and should not be advocated for in the name of art.

Most distressingly, the stress of this specific production reportedly led to the death of the elderly elephant involved. Using one of the world's most sensitive creatures as a prop for creative vanity is an appalling practice that endangers wildlife for selfish gain.

The Call for Accountability
Despite numerous attempts by the Indian community and various media entities to explain why this imagery is tone-deaf, Ms. Buruleva has consistently remained defensive. Rather than offering a humble apology or showing accountability, she has used "creative expression" as a shield to gaslight her critics. This refusal to acknowledge her privilege, combined with a total lack of remorse for the harm caused, aggravates an already sensitive situation.

While we do not object to the documentation of Indian traditions, we demand that artists prioritize ethics over exploitation.

Our Demand
We urge the representing organization to analyze whether Ms. Buruleva’s actions align with their institutional values. It is extremely disappointing to see a creative who endangers creatures and misrepresents cultures for personal benefit continue to receive professional representation.

By signing this petition, we demand that the representing organization take immediate action to address these ethical violations and hold Julia Buruleva accountable.

Julia's Social media posts - 

https://www.instagram.com/p/DSxq4wKErAx/?img_index=1
https://www.instagram.com/p/DU3ucU0kkyi/?img_index=1
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWHQ3rClhEN/?img_index=1

Indian media - 
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWgtmlYgv-e/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWgO0pchOet/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWlw0SmkYmw/?img_index=1
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWlOkbWk7J5/?img_index=1
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWi0ARWDNJp/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWgm1pUj-t3/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWmKpsziPrK/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWjTJaAjbh7/