Banksy's Street Art: Why I Love Controversial Art | The Odyssey Online
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Banksy's Street Art: Why I Love Controversial Art

For as long as I have been into art, I have always known I was into the kind of art that would piss people off.

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Banksy's Street Art: Why I Love Controversial Art
Danna Samhan

As I am backpacking my way across Europe, I already knew I was going to be walking into museums that held names as internationally known as Picasso, Van Gogh, Mucha, and so on. But the one artist that I have been waiting years to see, and was now finally able to see, was Banksy. The forever unknown street artist that has now become a household name. Initially being seen as a loiter and trespassing graffiti bollock, Banksy has used his art to create and provoke thought into those that are lucky enough to see his work. I remember the day I fell in love with his art truly was when I learned he was traveling to places around the world that no one would dare go to, just to spread a message. When Banksy went to the Gaza Strip and turned the destruction into art, or when Banksy started mocking the government unapologetically to prove his point.

So, here I am, after years of waiting to see Banksy, on my journey abroad I was lucky enough to not only see one or two pieces of his, but well over a hundred in his own exhibit. Pieces collected over the years from museums, and private collectors; which Banksy actually opposes. These pieces have me literally questioning my whole life. They have me thinking maybe I could reach my purpose through a different method and reach the minds and souls of millions. Banksy has redone and mocked pieces from fellow artists like Warhol and has made them his own. He has mocked political figures, made them more personal, and has even turned religious figures into what some would call a joke.

I love him for this, I think Banksy is not meant to be enjoyed by everyone. Only those who understand his humor and his message. Only those who are meant to rebel in this world and see it for what it truly is, trash. Banksy has showed me that past this trash of a world we live in, we can get some sick twisted beauty out of it. So Banksy, whoever you are, wherever you are; I thank you. For you may never be my favorite artist, thank Basquiat for that one, you will always be up there. I hope you continue to break the standards of society and keep redefining what art is supposed to be. And as auctioneers keep giving your pieces away for top dollar to those who can hardly say your name, let alone understand your work -- I hope you never sell yourself to the fame, glory and money.

They say the greatest part is the mystery of it all. And as selfish as I am in wishing to know who you are, I hope I never find out. Because to me you are the shadow and truth of us all, that allows himself to be public.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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