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Banksy Vandalism

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Banksy Vandalism
Banksy is known around the world for his artwork creating conversations that people are too afraid to start. Although graffiti is seen as a vandalous crime, Banksy’s work is use to point out the crime that is really harming our environment and society. Politics, economics, homophobia, hypocrisy, and war are all themes used in his work to project his beliefs on the recent issues around the world. As there are many fans of this anonymous artist, there are also many people who disagree with him. Banksy’s work lies between rebellious vandalism and art that speaks for those who cannot. He stated in an interview that his work is harmless compared to others, as he says, “Twisted little people go out every day and deface this great city; leaving their …show more content…
It is still vandalism and it is still wrong. Banksy, however, has used this crime as a way to start miniature revolutions in multiple countries. His beliefs and his art has been spread throughout the world, making him one of the most famous graffiti artist known today. In his documentary Exit Through The Gift Shop he states that, “People say graffiti is ugly, irresponsible and childish. But that's only if it's done properly” (qtd. Banksy, Exit Through the Gift Shop). What he means by this, is that people refuse to recognize the truths in his work. They continuously view his work as only a crime, and do not look at the message. He acknowledges that regardless of how honest his work is, there will still be people who look at it is as vandalism, and be blind in his eyes. Banksy’s artwork is more positive than it is negative, in the sense that he does not do it without purpose. He damages walls while creating awareness. “A wall is a very big weapon,” Banksy states, “it is one of the nastiest things you can hit someone with” (qtd. Banksy). With this power, Banksy continues today to raise awareness of international problems through art and mockery. He took a criminalized tool, and used it to show who the real criminals are. “The greatest crimes in the world are not committed by people breaking the rules but by people following the rules. It's people who follow orders that drop bombs and massacre villages” (qtd.

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