Banksy, the world's most in-demand artist, is known for his thought-provoking and politically charged artworks. However, despite the often-controversial themes of his pieces, he also portrays innocence in his art. Banksy's presentation of innocence in his artwork is multifaceted, with the use of childlike imagery, animals, and humour being some of the primary ways he achieves this.
One way Banksy presents innocence in his art is through the use of childlike imagery and themes. For example, in his piece "Girl with Balloon," a young girl is seen reaching for a heart-shaped balloon that has slipped out of her hand. The image is simple and whimsical, evoking a sense of childlike wonder and innocence. The image is made even more powerful by the fact that it was painted on a wall in an urban environment, providing a stark contrast to the harsh realities of the world that often surround us. The girl's innocence is further emphasised by the fact that she is alone, highlighting the vulnerability that comes with being a child.
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Similarly, in his mural "One Nation Under CCTV," Banksy depicts a young boy painting the phrase "One Nation Under CCTV" on a wall. The image shows the boy standing on a ladder, completely absorbed in his work, as if he is unaware of the surveillance cameras that are watching him. This image presents innocence in the form of the boy's youthful enthusiasm and his obliviousness to the world's darker realities. In a world where surveillance and security are pervasive, the boy's innocence provides a much-needed reminder of a simpler, more carefree time.
Another way Banksy presents innocence in his art is through his use of animals. For example, in his work “Barcode” we see a leopard escaping from its cage whose bars are a barcode.Menacingly emerging towards the viewer, the organic matter of the leopard is juxtaposed with the digital, ethereal world of barcodes (like Neo escaping the Matrix) as nature fights from man’s attempt to contain it.
In his piece "Gorilla in a Pink Mask," Banksy portrays a gorilla wearing a surgical mask, a symbol of the COVID-19 pandemic. The image is striking because it combines the fierceness of a wild animal with the vulnerability and fear that has been felt by many during the pandemic. The gorilla's innocence is emphasised by the fact that it is wearing a pink mask, a colour often associated with sweetness and gentleness.
Finally, Banksy also presents innocence in his art through his use of humour. He often injects a sense of wit and irony into his work, using humour to highlight the absurdity of society's norms and values. In doing so, he challenges viewers to question their own assumptions and beliefs, and to see the world through fresh eyes. For example, in his piece "Rude Copper," Banksy portrays a typical British policeman giving the middle finger to the viewer. The image is playful and subversive, challenging traditional power structures and the rigid expectations of the police that are often associated with law enforcement.
Overall, Banksy presents innocence in his artwork through a combination of childlike imagery, animal motifs, and humour. By doing so, he invites viewers to see the world with a sense of wonder and curiosity, and to challenge the assumptions and beliefs that shape our perceptions of the world. His art reminds us that, despite the darkness and turmoil of the world around us, there is still beauty and innocence to be found in the most unexpected places.
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