Portsmouth Cyclists Strip Off in Bold Protest Against Oil Dependence and Road Safety
Today, daring cyclists from the World Naked Bike Ride shed their clothes in Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, making a striking stand on oil dependency and cycling safety. The annual ride kicked off at Alexandra Park, but the riders held back from nudity until they reached the city’s most iconic spot.
Relocation Due to Complaints
The decision to reveal in Guildhall Square came after backlash from staff at the Mountbatten Centre. Originally set to start along the seafront, organisers had to shift the route after complaints from local residents stirred up controversy.
From Artistic Protest to Global Movement
The World Naked Bike Ride, begun in 2003 by Conrad Schimdt, evolved from the earlier 2002 ‘Artists for Peace/Artists Against War’ nude rides. What started as a guerrilla art protest has now exploded globally.
- In 2004, rides took place in 28 cities across 10 countries on 4 continents.
- The message? Protesting oil dependency and celebrating the human body’s power and individuality.
A Sharpened Focus in 2006
By 2006, the movement refined its message to simplify and intensify its stance on environmental issues and cycling safety, ensuring greater impact worldwide.
