Public art in the twenty first century is an expansive concept, and one where the lines are often blurred between what is truly art produced by and for the people, and what is authorized by the government. Sometimes these two ideas go hand in hand, however increasingly in modern day society unauthorized art has taken the main stage. I contend that unconventional public art, such as graffiti, has a greater impact on society than a work commissioned by the government. Through Banksy work he is able to tell important stories and sentiments that can resonate with people of all education and socioeconomic backgrounds. Banksy is particularly successful in the way that he creates art on issues and social norms that are applicable to a broad range of people. When you can relate to art it makes it more personal and in turn, more memorable.
The context that art is presented in is crucial to the type of message that is being given. A canvas painting adorned in gold and famed carefully is very different from a stenciled picture on a rouge wall. Banksy’s art style is not only relatable to people; it is accessible to the people. You don’t need anything more than to be in the right place at the right time in order to see his most of his creations.
“Mobile Lovers” Bristol
This stark depiction of modern love is a clear critique on the tech-obsessed generation that we live in today. Banksy exhibits how human contact and physical love comes a close second to our handheld devices that we cling to constantly. Even in an intimate moment we are absorbed in our devices, addicted to their glow and allure. The clear message from this is a call for society to wake up and connect with each other face to face. It is not out of the ordinary to see people fully absorbed in their devices while in the presence of others.
“Cardinal Sin” Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool
Following the child sexual abuse scandal of the Catholic Church in 2011, Banksy created this controversial piece. The bust of a priest is covered by pixels, ironically in the same way that the young victims’ was in the media’s coverage of the crime. By placing his work in the Walker Gallery, among religious art from the 17th century he is sending a clear message. Banksy is candid with his opinions concerning the church and the corruption that lies beneath. His art leaves the audience with the feeling that these religious figures of high prestige are criminals, similar to those we see on the news and in papers. The context of this specific piece creates a deeper meaning to the viewer as the pixelated figure is surrounded by authentic artwork that is of great value. This parallels how a high up religious figure, surrounded by many devout and pious men, can still commit horrendous crimes.
“I Remember When This Was All Trees” Detroit
This mural is located amongst the ruins of the Packard Plant in Detroit, calling attention to the effects of heavy industrialization. This art was highly controversial not for the message that this art holds, but rather the concept of who owns this art. Since this was created in an abandoned plant, that no one really owns or uses anymore, after it was discovered many people attempted to claim ownership over the wall. The neglected ruins were suddenly popular after the art had appeared and it was not soon after it was found that Gallery 555 excavated the whole wall and placed it in their museum. This creates the controversial conversation about who really owns art, and if something starts as public art can it then be turned into private art? In a moral sense is it a crime to take art out of its original context for the sake of the message that it contains and could this possibly skew and devalue what the artist’s intention was?
“Flying Balloons Girl” West Bank in Israel
This stencil is a subtle piece with a strong message. It is located strategically on a wall in the West Bank in Israel between Palestine and Israel. The image is idyllic in the way that it depicts a small child being lifted away, lighter than air and free of cares. The young girl is innocent and vulnerable in this representation and the way that she reaches for the balloons shows a strong desire to be able to float away, over the walls to somewhere else. Banksy gives much care to where he places his art because the context is half the message. This wall is very public and that is why it sends such a strong message.
One could argue that if Banksy had to have authorization for most of his works, being that graffiti is illegal, a majority of them would not exist. The complete freedom of expression that graffiti artists and all street artists experience is unparalleled. They are free to create and send any message to the public candidly, using whole cities as their canvas; with the audience limited to no one.
Sources: http://archives.relevantmagazine.com/culture/banksy’s-10-most-powerful-works-social-commentary