Summary
- Two matching murals appeared in Bayswater and near Centre Point on December 20 and 22
- The stenciled images show children in winter clothing gazing upward
- Experts view the pieces as commentary on youth homelessness during winter
The anonymous street artist Banksy placed two matching murals in separate London locations days before Christmas. Both stenciled works show two children wearing winter coats, hats, and wellington boots. They lie on the ground while one points toward the sky.
The first piece surfaced December 20 outside Centre Point tower near Tottenham Court Road. The second appeared at Queen's Mews in Bayswater on a row of garages. Banksy confirmed the Bayswater version through Instagram on December 22. In that location, the child's pointing finger lines up with a red light on a nearby crane. The positioning creates an echo of the Star of Bethlehem. An overflowing skip sits adjacent to the mural.
Art observers interpret both works as statements about youth homelessness during winter months. Centre Point tower holds specific meaning for this subject. The building became a symbol for housing protests decades ago. The homelessness charity Centrepoint took its name from the tower.
These December murals follow a year of politically charged work from the artist. In September, Banksy created a piece at the Royal Courts of Justice. Authorities removed the mural quickly. The image showed a judge hitting a protester with a gavel. People viewed the work as criticism of government actions against activist groups. The winter murals represent a shift to quieter themes focused on human experience.
Who is Banksy?
No one knows Banksy's true identity. The artist has kept their identity secret since the 1990s. Various theories exist. Some suggest Banksy is a collective of artists. Others point to specific individuals. Robert Del Naja from Massive Attack and artist Robin Gunningham have faced speculation. No theory has been confirmed. The mystery remains part of Banksy's public presence.
How does Banksy create work without detection?
Banksy works at night in most cases. The artist uses stencils prepared in advance. This method allows quick execution. The actual painting takes minutes rather than hours. Assistants help with logistics and lookouts. Street art culture values anonymity. Witnesses often choose not to report the activity. The speed and preparation make detection difficult.
What is the value of Banksy's work?
Prices for Banksy pieces vary widely. Original street murals have no fixed price. When removed and sold, they fetch significant sums. Print editions sell from several thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Gallery pieces sold at auction have reached millions. A piece called "Devolved Parliament" sold for 9.9 million pounds in 2019. "Love is in the Bin" sold for 18.5 million pounds in 2021. Street pieces remain accessible to everyone for free.
Who hides behind the Banksy name?
The question of who operates under the Banksy name remains unanswered. Legal documents filed in trademark disputes have revealed little. The artist's representatives refuse to confirm any identity. Former associates and gallery owners maintain strict silence. Banksy's lawyer, Mark Stephens, represents the artist without revealing personal details. The anonymity protects the artist from prosecution for property damage charges related to street art. The secret also maintains the mystique that drives public interest.
The twin murals add to Banksy's body of work addressing social issues. The timing before Christmas emphasizes the contrast between holiday celebrations and those without homes. Both pieces remain in their original locations. Local residents have expressed hope the murals will stay intact. Past Banksy works have faced theft, vandalism, and authorized removal.
Andrea Darren
Born in Manchester, from a young age, she was passionate about art and design. She studied at the University of the Arts in London, where she developed her skills in these fields. Today, Andrea works as an editor for a renowned publishing house, combining her love for art and design with her editorial expertise.