German artist fined for pushing up on the altar

German artist Alexander Karle has been fined by a Saarbrücken district court for his push-up “performance” on the altar of the local St. John’s Catholic parish, reports Deutsche Welle.

The 38-year-old Saar College of Fine Arts graduate insulted the feelings of believers and sanctity of altars by ignoring that the altar was roped off, climbing upon the altar table itself, and doing twenty-seven push-ups on camera, later to be posted online and shown at an exhibition under the title "Pressure to Perform".

Karle says his workout session was a work of art, not intended to offend Christians, but “to explore the relationship between religion and the need to meet the high demands of our times.” The Catholic Church, however, has regarded the action precisely as an offense and brought the man to court.

“The Christian faith also has the right to a respectful attitude,” stated parish rector Eugen Vogt.

On January 17, Karl was ordered to pay the fine of 700 euros and to absorb the relevant court costs.

“Equating the altar with a gym wall is objectively disrespectful,” said Judge Judith Simon, adding that “creative freedom protected by law is not unlimited, inasmuch as the rights of other people are its limits,” and “the right of religious freedom is also protected by law.”

Alexander Karle refused to pay the fine, insisting on the interpretation of his performance as a work of art and the case was referred to the court.