4/13/2011

Through Banksy's pieces I find humor as well as  motivation in what I interpret as social commentary. At the wall that separates Israel from Palestine, Banksy created a work of art that depicts childhood freedom and innocence. The fact that he was able to bring these feelings to the a site of violence and long standing disagreements is so inspirational. I very much agree with what Banksy is doing because of how important it is to remember to keep peace.

Graffiti is definitely art. Art doesn't have boundaries, and can't be defined by subject matter or where it exists. Graffiti plays a large role in our culture, though it can't seem to escape the ongoing debate of vandalism vs. art. Tagging that could be seen as offensive may not be art to some people, but it's still a reality. I think alternate personas are used for the artists to protect themselves. For example, if people found out who Banksy really is (not just his alias), there's a good chance he would get into legal trouble. The whole basis of graffiti and street art is rebelling against authority.

I can't stress enough how important I think it is for people to put their work out for the public. Through circulation and social commentary, this in itself helps us evolve and progress.