Mega Viral ‘Monkey Jesus’ Fresco Restorer Cecilia Giménez Dies at 94

Cecilia Giménez, the Spanish parishioner behind the infamous ‘Monkey Jesus’ fresco restoration, has passed away at the age of 94. The image, which went viral in 2012, showed a monkey-like face in place of Jesus Christ. Giménez's attempt to restore the fresco at the Santa Maria de la Asunción church in Borja, Spain, sparked both outrage and amusement worldwide.

Giménez's actions were widely criticized, with many considering her restoration to be a vandalism. However, the image also became a popular meme and a symbol of internet culture. The ‘Monkey Jesus’ fresco restoration was seen as a prime example of the power of the internet to shape our perceptions of art and culture.

Despite the controversy surrounding her actions, Giménez remained unapologetic about her restoration. In an interview with the Spanish newspaper El País, she stated that she had simply tried to restore the fresco to its original state, without realizing the impact it would have on the internet.

Giménez's legacy is a complex one, reflecting both the power of art to inspire and the dangers of unchecked creativity. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the original intent of artists and the potential consequences of altering their work.

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[7] Mega Viral ‘Monkey Jesus’ Fresco Restorer Cecilia Giménez Dies at 94