‘Garage’ magazine editor-in-chief sits on chair supported by nearly-naked black woman

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A photo published by the online magazine Buro 247 on Monday was defended by its editor as “a piece of art” while others have labeled it racist.

Miroslava Duma, the editor of the publication, published a story on Dasha Zhukova, the Russian editor-in-chief of Garage magazine. The article is accompanied with an image of the white leading editor sitting atop a chair supported by a nearly naked and very life-like black woman who is laid on her back with legs in the air.

The image, which was posted on Dr. Martin Luther King Day, has drawn criticism for its blatant disregard and lack of respect for women of color.

“Even in the grim, tasteless world of fashion photography, this revolting racist image- pub’d on MLK Day!- stands out,” one user wrote on Twitter.

“Sometimes I just can’t with people and the fashion industry who decided that this was okay? Mira Duma Buro 247…” another tweeted. 

Duma originally posted the photo on Instagram but later removed it after the post was flooded with comments ridiculing the image. She later issued a public apology on the social media app, saying:

“Dear all, Buro24/7.ru team and I personally would like to express our sincerest apology to anyone who we have offended and hurt. It was absolutely not our intention. We are against racism or gender inequality or anything that infringes upon anyone’s rights. We love, respect and look up to people regardless of their race, gender or social status.”

In her statement, Duma explained that the image should not be seen as “any form of discrimination.” Instead, she says the chair in the photo should only be seen as a “piece of art” which was inspired by British pop-artist Allen Jones.

Jones created a collection in 1969 which used similar sculpted, life-size mannequins that formed the foundation for pieces labeled “Hatstand,” “Table” and “Chair.”

He has reportedly described his collection as “the most radical statement that he has made.”

Follow Lilly Workneh on Twitter @Lilly_Works