Anonymous, Yet Everywhere

Imagine you are walking down an ordinary alley in London, and suddenly spot a huge cluster of shoving people and reporters. You get closer and see a strikingly different piece of artwork in a funny and interesting style you have never seen before. You might have just stumbled across a Banksy.

Nobody knows anything about the identity of Banksy, down to their age and gender. But everyone knows about their art: rebellious, thought provoking, and outspoken, it highlights enlightening opinions about current issues in a humorous and unique style. They shine light on uncomfortable truths that need to be spoken. Since the day Banksy’s graffiti was first discovered all the way to now, they have always been controversial.

Many admire the art, and applaud the courage with which Banksy puts forth their thoughts, but others consider the way they address problems and convey messages as anarchy and danger. But isn’t that the point of art; to stir the thoughts of its viewers, and make them think about how it makes them feel?

Banksy challenges viewers of their art to stop, think, question, and face the truth, and promotes activism and speaking out. They address social and political issues, like war, capitalism, consumerism, and the power of the state. They inspire both their fellow artists and normal people to think outside the box, and use their voice to make a change. 

Banksy has created 157 discovered artworks worldwide, some of the most notable being “balloon girl”. It symbolises hope and dreams, the very things people always follow and strive for but can’t always hold onto. Another is “flower thrower”, which says that hope and action for peace is our greatest weapon against war. 

A big part of Banksy’s genius is that nobody knows who they are. Age, gender, Banksy could even be a group of people. If the artist is unknown to everyone, then the art itself will speak louder. The maker of the masterpieces being a mystery means that everyone’s focus will be on the work, and the meaning of the work, instead of who made it. But despite that, we know who Banksy is. They are an activist. They are an artist. They are a voice. They are a change maker. And you can be too. Anyone can make a change.

Footnote: Many refer to Banksy as male on default, but there is no evidence, only speculation on that front, so it is a safer bet not to assume their gender.