Researching the work of Banksy and aggressive messages behind the graffiti.

Here are 3 examples of aggressive messaging behind Banksy's work:

Example one features a tired looking male painter  standing next to the painted on word, “FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS” written in all black, all uppercase letters. Over those words is the text “CANCELLED” in white, all uppercase lettering with a red rectangle background, as if to signify that the notion of following one’s dreams has been cancelled. This perhaps suggests that the public continuously follow the crowd and that no one has the bravery to do what they want. It shows that everyone is a sheep; meaning they copy and do the same thing. This is a symbolic statement as it encourages the awareness of the importance to 'follow your dreams'. This graffiti was perhaps painted to make people realise that they should be doing something that they want to, something that makes them happy. The tired old worker could be there as an example. His facial expression portrays a form of regret and basic sadness- could it be that he wishes he'd followed his dreams? Also the violent coloured text (black and red) is not only to ensure it stands out but also to emphasise the importance of being your own person.

 

This example of aggressive messaging is less elaborate than some. It details two policemen, both of the male gender, kissing. This piece of work would encourage a lot of controversy as they are high-up servicemen and it may be seen 'wrong' to be homosexual in that line of work. This is one of my favourite Banksy pieces as it is simple yet effective. This image would definitely raise a lot of concerns or anger perhaps, as the public and perhaps government may believe that by having homosexual servicemen, they are unable or unsuitable to defend our citizens. It may be seen by people as encouraging the public to be homosexual, which a lot of narrow-minded individuals have expressed. I think this piece is inner aggressive; by which I mean it doesn't need texts or headlines to show the meaning. It's bold and could be perceived as quite outrageous, but it portrays the message clearly. The colours used are simple statements- simple like Banksy's intention of this art work. The message could be "It's wrong to judge on sexual preference." or perhaps Banksy is angry with the public for discriminating against homosexual servicemen. "Whatever sexual preference, they still protect us" would be a good moral for this particular piece of art.

 

 

 



My last example of aggressive messaging is this one. A maid, 'sweeping something under the carpet'. Maids are well known for keeping things clean and sanitary, they also hear and see everything that goes on within a house. This picture isn't as aggressive as most, but is more secretive perhaps. The maid might be covering up a secret or a lie or maybe something symbolic and a deeper issue like domestic abuse. Again there is no text, leaving the message of this image to the viewers. I believe it should be something like "what happens at home is unknown" or "each family has their secrets". I think the subliminal message behind this is more to the point and to make you think. It also could be perceived as something judgemental. Trying to raise awareness that you shouldn't pick on someone or make their lives difficult because you do not know what is happening in their home life. There are many different ways this graffiti work could be perceived, it is down to how you yourself portray it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I believe this is the most extreme of Banksy's work. It features a young girl frisking a soldier up against a wall. In the image the girl is wearing ponytails and a pink dress, representing purity and innocence. The soldier, in olive-green clothing and with a machine gun laying to his side, is contrasted with the young girl and represents aggression. The frisking of the soldier represents the dehumanization of individuals as the way they are treated is based on their religion or ethnicity. Using irony, Banksy invites observers to contemplate the cultural barriers that prevent people from fully recognising the humanity of others. This is a powerful piece that represents a very touchy subject for many. It sends out an aggressive message of what racism is doing to the world. Using a little girl makes people think deeper as it may show that kids are being brought onto Earth with the understanding that certain religions or concepts are wrong. This Banksy image has colours which makes it easy to depict the innocent from the wrong. It's a strong message and is one of my favourite pieces.