An unverified England-based graffiti artist, Banksy often leaves satirical street art on the walls of strategically-planned places; his artwork consists of social and political commentary that instigate conversations and emotions from people across the globe.
Here are some of his most famous murals that became a hot topic for discussion in the United States.
The Son of a Migrant from Syria
In response to many countries closing off their borders to Syrian refugees during the European Migrant Crisis, Banksy depicted a mural of Steve Jobs, the son of a Syrian migrant saying that "We're often led to believe migration is a drain on the country's resources...but Apple is the world's most profitable company, it pays over $7B a year in taxes--and it only exists because they allowed in a young man from Homs." In painting this mural, Banksy hopes to create awareness of the millions of refugees that desperately need our help.
Mobile Lovers
With this mural, Banksy is portraying the disconnect of people in relationships due to their mobile use. Sadly, it seems that our online connection is stronger than our connection to people in reality.
Slave Labor
Depicted above is a mural of an urchin child at a sewing machine assembling some Union Jack patches. This demonstrates protest against the sweatshops that hired kids to manufacture London Olympics memorabilia in 2012.
Bomb Hugger
In this stenciled work, Banksy juxtaposes a young, innocent girl with a large bomb that is dropped by military airplanes. This mural emphasizes the true nature of the war, as opposed to the rhetoric from the politicians. Banksy thus challenges the politicians who describe warfare in a positive light.
One Nation Under CCTV
This mural acts as Banksy's protest against Britain's surveillance; ironically, it is painted just a few feet from a CCTV camera.
Banksy's unique stencil murals have largely impressed the world, with some of his work placed in museums by people who removed it from the original location. Most of his messages are usually anti-war or anti-establishment. He is seen as one of the world's most popular street artists, and deservedly so.
