The Guardian has run an interesting photo story of “Guerrilla Artist” Banksy’s latest graffiti work on Israel’s illegal wall that winds through the West Bank. Banksy left his mark on the wall back in 2005 and has come back with other graffiti artists, in order to promote some tourist action in Bethlehem during the Christmas season. The Santa’s Ghetto, described as ‘probably the world’s most low-concept art event’, has moved from Oxford Street straight to Bethlehem this year, with Banksy saying, “If it is safe enough for a bunch of sissy artists, then it is safe enough for anyone.”
I recommend taking some time to surf through the very interesting website, especially sections entitled “The Point” and the “Art Room”. BBC also has the story in pictures.
Graffiti artist Banksy has set up his annual Santa’s Ghetto in Bethlehem this year, where visitors will be able to buy his work until Christmas Eve. His stencils on the controversial wall separating Jerusalem from Bethlehem have also inspired other artists to make their marks.
The highly controversial wall, constructed by Israel under the claim that it provides security for its people, has been condemned by activists and declared illegal by the United Nations.
Banksy’s latest publicity stunt is timed to coincide with today’s opening of an exhibition of his work, and that of other artists, in the city which aims to bring tourists back to Bethlehem over the Christmas period.
International graffiti artists have been leaving their mark on the eight metre-high concrete barrier.
Banksy’s signature rat holds a sling and looks up at the barrier.
A Palestinian man walks by a section of the security wall decorated by an anonymous graffiti artist.
No matter how bad things turn up for Palestinians and no matter how many barriers Israel establishes to limit the people; yet it amazes me how one can turn a wall into a magnificant piece of art that tells the story of generations of which can build a new horizon for a whole nation.
Naseem, your blog is kind of a “get-away” for me. Your work is highly appreciated and admired. Keep it up!
Hi there.
You take some beautiful pictures!
I am a student at the University of Minnesota in the USA. I am a journalism student and am required to write a story on Beirut. I am just trying to get a hold of anyone I can from Beirut so I can talk to them about how the war with Israel effects you on a daily basis, or if it effects you at all? I would be very greatful for any response you could give me. Thanks so much for your time. Please e-mail me at tarr0011@umn.edu.
Thanks again!
Tiffany
That’s brilliant. I love the idea of “decorating” the Wall. In a loose way, it reminds me of San Diego’s Chicano Park.
I respect such artists. They support the case with their creativity. They can let the world know how racist Israel is. Roger Waters, songwriter of Pink Floyd, made some efforts against the wall. In a separated action, Palestinian children have performed an inspired song of his well known “Another Break on the Wallâ€, the changes on lyrics are as follows:
We don’t need no occupation
We don’t need no racist wall
No more siege and no more curfews
Soldiers leave us kids alone
Hey! Soldiers! Leave us kids alone!
All in all you’re just another brick in the wall
All in all we’ve just made another BREAK in the wall
P.S: The original song is entitled “Another Brick on the Wallâ€
Nadeen: thanks 🙂
Tiffany: I didn’t take these pictures. Also I am a Jordanian-based Jordanian so I’m not affected by what’s happening in Lebanon. The best person to speak to is probably the best lebanese blogger out there: Mustapha of Beirut Spring.
Awartany: i remember that. it was around the same time banksy was there as well.
“If it is safe enough for a bunch of sissy artists, then it is safe enough for anyone.†– unless “anyone” is jewish