Iris Compiet @iriscompiet.art · Mar 25 I’ve had to make the tough call to cancel my attendance as artist guest of honour at the Fantasy Art Workshop in Milwaukee in June… why? Because it’s no longer safe
11521 likes 662 replies
Replies
You are thoughtful and wise. What a shame that we miss out on your talent. Apologies on behalf of a weeping lady Liberty and our formerly free country.
Family members have also been invited to attend an event in Washington. I am advising and hoping that they won’t go as it is not safe anymore. I used to be worried about visiting US due to the gun culture. Now it’s guns and so called “law and order” officials that cause fear
I completely understand - as an American I'm concerned about getting back in if I leave.
I am so sorry, i voted for Harris for a more loving country and instead hate had won…. We r not giving up and everything going on is fueling us
I’m so sorry you had to do this but trust me when I say most Americans support your decisions. Maybe one day you’ll be able to trust us again. Stay safe. ❤️❤️
At this time, you made the right decision. ❤️ from Los Angeles.
This is infuriating, and in the same situation, I would do the exact same thing.
We are also not travelling to the US until there’s regime change. We used to go every 6 months but sadly not for the foreseeable now.
I am sorry both for you and those who will miss your wisdom and inspiration. I cannot imagine the uncertainty one might feel about traveling here for any purpose after the recent actions taken by the Trump admin. However, I completely understand your reluctance to do so, and so will others.
This ashamed american believes this is a good call.
The US is not a safe destination for anyone now. Don’t go there, don’t do business with them if possible, don’t buy US products. Don’t support them. The cost is not worth the price.
I wish I could argue but every point you have is a good and solid one. Stay safe please. It is our loss. *sending horse hugs*
This is an absolute shame. I am both embarrassed and disappointed in what my country has become. These people are a stain on our history. I apologize for what has happened. Please know the real Americans do not stand behind this regime.
This breaks my heart! 😢 I’m so sorry!!!
Good decision…went to your page and I really liked your work…
I don’t blame you. I’m sorry-
A beautiful soul such as yours has no place in the frat party the US has become. Be well.
You are smart not to come here right now.
As an American, seeing the atrocities being taken against foreign visitors is appalling many of us. I would have never believed 10 years ago allied countries would issue travel advisories to the U.S. We are also very much aware they are warranted with our insane president. He has made us pariahs.
Understood and warranted; currently, our 'Govt', is under attack, hijacked by a faction of sick, sad, demented individuals - but they & their 'supporters' are in no way representative of all of us / the majority. Stay safe and stay Green.
I’m sorry this is happening and that you’re affected. These are terrible times. In my mind, you are always welcome.
I’m an American and can’t blame you. Would leave if I could find a way.
So very sorry that you feel this way and don’t blame you a bit. If I wasn’t American I wouldn’t visit the US either. Didn’t vote for this guy in either election & so ashamed of my country.
Very very sad…the USA has changed. Very sad.
Completely get this. The rule of law no longer applies in the US. I'm scared to travel there too. I'm reminded of the Handmaid's Tale scene at the airport where women with children (ie fertile) are 'detained' and sadly that sort of situation now seems not just possible, but probable.
I'm sorry for the way my countries fall into authoritarianism has affected you and the millions of others who used to be able to consider the USA a modern, responsible country. Those days are over.
Wise decision
We have plenty of green haired artists here and they are just fine. You would have been just fine.
I live in the U. S. and I no longer trust the leadership. Hopefully, things will change for the better.
Thugs always target those who look different.
😞
Hope you can make it someday. Take care. Be safe.
It is shameful our one time allies have to feel this way. It is not unwarranted. I feel like I'm living in the upside down.
I'm so sorry. Unfortunately, it's sensible in the current time. Half of us in the US don't feel safe traveling in the US at this point. I hope it gets better within our lifetimes.
😪😪😪😪😪😪😪😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡
So sorry my country now sucks so hard.
VERY sorry you felt unsafe in our country. If it means anything, many American citizens feel unsafe here, too.
I fully respect the decision you’ve made - you must put your safety first. Your contributions are important!
You've made the correct decision. DO NOT VISIT US until trump and his entire cadre are removed from government
It’s remarkable that people feel fearful of traveling to my country the way I fear Russia: breaks my heart.💔
I live in MKE and have seen a shift in the areas and people coming into the city being hyper far right and outwardly fascist, You're not mistaken. I worry about my wife who is just as outspoken. We've had to consider immigration (expatriots) but we are unsure. We protested here and it wasn't enough.
Canada here! C'mon down! 😁
I'm sorry. 😔
Of that I cannot blame you in the least. Though it is saddening for you. Since your aspiration is to share your knowledge of art to others around the world to inspire them from the beginner to the adept of art.
I'm so sorry.
Good call, Iris. Traveling here now is unsafe.
Smart.
This too shall pass but in the meantime I fear you would not be safe. I'm an American citizen and I am advising any friends from other countries to avoid travel here while this regime is in Power.
Wise decision! Stay safe and keep making art!!
I’m so sorry to read this 💔 and understand your concern for your safety. It’s what they want isn’t it. I hope you find comfort in your support networks 🙏🏼
∧∧∧∧ ( ｡-( //// ) Muah･･･💓 /"""" ^つ O し-Ｊ∪∪
I honestly wish all traveling artists would cancel. As a citizen of the US, I’m afraid the message isn’t truly going to sink in until all the people are hurting and suffering. The tide is turning but still too slowly.
Sadly, Iris is right. You bring your work tools they will say you’re coming here to work. I’m so sorry. The USA is not safe.
These are very scary times for both visitors and citizens!
As an American and a proud Milwaukee resident, I’m so sorry it has come to this. Hope you can visit in 4-years.
I am glad you are not coming here. Please be safe. ❤️
I feel you, I was planing to go to nyc this year but by besides being Spanish and having an European passport I was born and raised in Venezuela… I don’t want to end up in Guantanamo or in the mega jail in El Salvador just for being Venezuelan…🥲
understandable. and hopefully we will have more and more people like you taking over the leadership here <3
I think this is incredibly sad but the right call. You need to protect yourself. I’m so sorry about what the US has become…
I am also an artist with green hair named Iris, but I live in the States…and yeah. You’re making the right call. I wish that weren’t the case, but it is.
A wise decision...
Same, I will not go to America for at least 4 years.
You made a very smart decision.
Yep, same. All of my past trips there were either for friends, conventions, or both--but no more. Period. It's not safe for anyone to be traveling to the US right now, especially if you're a woman, visibly queer, a POC, etc.
As an American, you have all my sympathies, and I 1000 percent agree with your decision. America is *not* a safe place to be, and if I could get my people out of here, I would.
I’m so sorry but you made the right call. No one should be traveling to the US right now. They are detaining people for weeks at a time here 😞
❤️ from the Midwest. And we totally understand.
Sadly, you have made the right decision. 😔
I'm very sorry. I support you.💔
Given everything currently going on in the US, you have 1000% made the right call. Btw I'm an American and even I don't feel safe in my own country right now, so I can fully understand people NOT wanting to risk their safety coming to the US for anything
Yeah I would tell everyone you know who is looking to come here not to. It's not safe here for anyone who isn't a straight white male born and bred religiously zealous American right now.
You're doing the right thing. It isn't safe to come here now. I hope in the future things will change, but for now just stay safe ❤️
I think you've made a wise decision. I'm so sorry.
Sucks, but I'm relieved you're prioritizing your safety.
I hate so much that I understand and encourage your decision. Be safe! Be happy!
This makes me terribly sad, but is totally understandable under the present circumstances. I hope & pray the damage done will not be irreversible. 💔🙏🏻
I’m so sorry that this had to happen to you. But you are making the right decision.
As a first-gen birthright citizen, it saddens me to have decided that unless something changes for the better If & when I next leave the country to travel, I will also move I will not even risk attempting to return To be clear: I’m a native-born US citizen, family documented But I trust NOTHING
You're not wrong. Do what you must to take care of yourself. As an American with...opinions...I'm just trying to keep my head down.
Unfortunately you’re right.
amen
As long as the Trump Gestapo is in power, avoid the US.
Good call
As an American I am so sorry. As a human I stand in solidarity with you. Peace.
A friend of mine who usually visits the US every 2 years told me today he won't be going again. He is a white male but even he thinks it is too dangerous to go. Not because of random shootings but because of ICE and the US government.
Nobody wants to "win" a free trip to El Salvador.
Idk what to say except I’m so sorry. And I don’t blame you one damn bit. Also I love your green hair, and your art is fantastic. 🫶
Iris, many of us understand you thoughtful reflecttion on your decison. As a 70 yr old human woman, who loves the Arts & is an American who knew exactly what would occur if Trump took office, his haters in tow ? Know we are fighting to take our Nation back so you & your gifts will be welcome...
The CLOSING of the American Mind.
Sadly, as a US citizen, I think you are making the right decision.
As someone who's from the US. With all due respect, stay the fuck away from here. if you're anything but a basic looking white pasty mother fucker, you're gonna get targeted by everyone. police, people, passer by's...it fucking sucks. culture in america is being destroyed as we speak.
As an American, this is completely understandable…thank you for explaining. I am ashamed….
Sd affair, but the right move.
I am so sorry this is happening! We used to be such a welcoming country, and I am just sick about how this is occurring. Wishing you much success in all your endeavors, and here's to a brighter future for all of us.
I wish I could apologize on behalf of America. But if it's worth anything, I am sorry that this happened. And I pray that this country will come to its senses soon.
Smart move, you have to put your own safety first. I wouldn’t recommend that ANYONE visiting the United States right now, until this regime is out of power, if that day ever comes.
So sorry, and you are doing the best thing, for now. I hope you will be able to do this when this country earns to have you.
This is incredibly sad and I don’t blame you at all for feeling unsafe. I’m sorry that my country is so messed up.
Much respect and love from the USA. I'm sorry our country is unsafe for you and so many others. We don't all support the Trump regime.
I agree, but my heart is breaking to think that the country I’ve loved for 82 years isn’t safe for an artist to visit! 🥲
As an American I say you made the right decision. No one is save. I am sorry you had to cancel your trip
Stay safe. Everyone in America understands and wishes it weren't so.
I think you have made a wise decision. We are working here in the States to change this situation for the better soon. Hope your decision is a wake up call to many.
I'm sorry you are missing something you feel dear to and you are making the absolute best decision of your life. It's only March, it may well be much worse by June.
Don’t blame ya. It’s understandable
NYC is still safe. Well, not Staten Island, but nobody wants to go there anyway.
As a very angry American with in-law family members in Europe, I believe you are making the correct decision. I don't know if we will ever again host her family before we retire and leave this shit hole country in our rear view.
I do not blame her. Terribly sad.
Above all, stay safe.
When it's safe again, please reconsider a Wisconsin visit. It's fun. So much to do!
I agree. In fact, I warn acquaintances to refrain from visiting the USA right now. Safety is my biggest concern for them. As a citizen I hate to admit this but it has to be said.
Sad situation but understand perfectly.
I don't blame you at all. I live here and think it's definitely the right decision for you. Just wish us luck. I've no idea what's coming but I know it won't be pleasant by any means.
Good for you. The US sucks right now. Watch out for yourself. It will be that much sweeter when you can safely visit and share and enjoy. I'm sorry
As an American, I'm so sorry you had to make this decision, but I understand and support you. Your safety comes first, full stop.
That's sad. But I don't blame you one bit. We're in the middle of a hostile takeover. It's a shitshow here.
Sucks but understandable decision. Hope that after some changes in the future we have the privilege to welcome you here. Be well!
The USA is NOT a safe visit to visit. You are wise to cancel. SADLY it also is not a SAFE PLACE TO LIVE. We are under siege.
😢
I’m so sorry but the right thing to do.
I wouldn’t travel here, just like I would bot have traveled to Nazi Germany in 1933.
USA isn't safe for anyone. I don't blame U got boycotting the usa
It's a very smart call
Thank you for doing what is safe!! 💙💙
It is my hope that we will eventually be able to rid ourselves of the evil that is our government, and you can hopefully come and see us. You will be very warmly welcomed.
Probably the right decision, but horrible that it had to be made at all. Be kind to yourself and keep being awesome!
😢 Understandable.
Don’t blame you 😬
😢
Damn.
How sad
Can’t blame you at all. Most unfortunate that Milwaukee will be the ones who really miss out.
I'm an American from California and I'm sorry. I agree that you made the right decision. This America isn't the America of yore. It's dangerous for anyone from any other country to visit. ICE is detaining regular tourists these days. Until that changes that, no one is safe traveling here.
So sorry what we’ve allowed to happen in our country.
I’m sorry you aren’t able to make your event. It hurts that people are now afraid to come to the U.S. Just know the majority of Americans are disgusted and disappointed this is happening.
America is not safe! I respect your decision.
Your safety is of utmost most importantance, coming here would definitely put you in danger. Although I am not an artist, not by any stretch of the imagination, I know that when it is safe, you will be welcomed with open arms.
As an immigrant in America I will be honest,the US is no longer safe
you made the right choice - good for you, stay safe, we here in america are not safe
This breaks my heart, but I completely understand. We hope to see you when WE THE PEOPLE take our country back ❤️
Smart move; sorry to hear it’s come to this. The USA is in a disgraceful mess; many of its’ citizens may start emigrating due to their safety….I know many who are exploring this option.
I am ashamed of my country. That our friends from the EU, from Canada, from Mexico from all over the world do not feel safe here. I’m saddened that we will miss out on your talents.😞🌺❤️
Sensible decision. The USA is not safe.
you made the right call.
I'm so so sorry. I'm also a very outspoken individual with bright pink hair and... Yeah, it's not safe here, especially for anyone of any other nationality. I'm really happy you are taking care of your safety. And I hope one day, it will finally be safe again for others to visit.
i am so sorry that this country is such a cluster fuck. maybe in a few years it will feel better to have you come visit. But in the meantime, I totally respect and appreciate your decisions. How disheartening it must feel for the rest of the world. Again, my sincerest apologies.
This makes me so sad. I hate that I live in a country where our leader is betraying us and the world. 😢
I think it's the right call (says a fellow European). Maybe there is an opportunity for a similar event in #Canada?
Understandable. Stay safe.
Good decision! Stay safe!
I support your decision. I am NEVER going back there. 🇨🇦
I’m so so sorry!!! You’re making the right decision. I live here and I don’t want to be here! Hopefully v soon we will get him and his cronies out of our govt!! It’s just a nightmare to think we have such horrible ppl that STILL are rooting for this 🍊🤡 regime to be successful. Low IQ individuals
I do not blame you in any way shape or form. It is a dumpster fire over here right now. Stay away until our fascism is at least marginally under control.
As an American I get it. If you don't get detained your luggage will be full of Americans trying to get out. Best wishes
It's sad that we live in a time when yesterday's paranoia is today's pragmatism.
Smart move. Take care of number one! ♥️
I'm sorry my country is a giant unsafe clusterfuck. I hope that someday it will be safe for people to visit again. In the meantime everyone should stay away for their own safety.
Thank you for playing it safe, buddy system ftw. (We need our buddies! heeeelp)
I don't blame her. It's the right call. No one should come here.
I’m SO sorry that you feel that way, but I totally understand your situation. I have advised my friends from overseas to think about reconsidering their travel plans. I was overseas for more than 25 years and have many friends with whom I keep up. None are planning on a USA trip in the near future.
Smart.
I don't know you, but I must say your decision is wise. Horrible to have to make, sure. But wise. As Europeans, we're no longer safe to travel to America.
I'm sorry that this impacts your plans and the plans of others. I'm happy that you will be safe and not subject to the lunacy of this country's current regime. The more people that do this the more strikes against it. Ashamedly, Grumpy Bear, Embarrassed US Citizen
American here. I’m sorry you have to cacel a momentous occasion and agree 100% it’s the right thing to do.
Completely fair, I hope you stay safe! Continue doing what’s best and safest for you.
I'm thinking of leaving this country very soon.
I am truly sorry. It’s the USA’s loss. As an American citizen, I don’t feel safe living here any more. I can’t blame anyone for staying away from us.
Do you sell your artwork online? Perhaps we can support you this way until it's safe to travel again.
Good for you, stay safe! It's not safe here until we get these monsters out of the government
Completely sane reaction to Trump administration's installation of police terror in the reception for visitors to the USA. Your tourism from Canada and EU is going to take a real hit. Get used to it. Most folk don't class an arbitrary free visit to a Salvadorean prison as a destination resort perk.
Totally understand your wise decision.
I've also made the decision that I can't travel to the USA at the moment. I'm a left leaning socialist who is outspoken against tyranny and I very much doubt I'd even get through customs. Already had to cancel engagements that I was very much looking forward to.
Honestly non Americans keeping themselves safe is a form of resistance. Don't participate. Don't contribute to tourism here. Don't bring money to our economy. Don't legitimize this regime. Everything is not business as usual. Stay safe.
Do it over the internet, like during covid. We need art now more than ever.
Yeah, no, you don’t want to come here. We’ll let you know when it’s safe.