New Banksy 'Mother and Child' Instagram Post
Mother And Child © Banksy Instagram 2024
Banksy
266 works
Banksy has struck again, unveiling a December Instagram post just in time to close out the year, and once more delivering his signature maverick take on classical themes. The artwork, featuring a Mother and Child, was shared on the artist’s Instagram in his trademark style, without a caption.
Banksy's Mother And Child Christmas Post
What We Know
Banksy took to Instagram on December 16th, sharing a mysterious cropped portrait of a mother and child, in his signature style, with no caption. Known for using Instagram to claim ownership of his street murals, his posts - always mysterious - never fail to spark conversation. However, this particular piece is not a mural. According to a conversation feed by the Urban Art Association, the artwork is actually a piece on metal that was sold at a show in February.
The artwork features a veiled woman, reminiscent of the Madonna, breastfeeding an infant. A pipe embedded in the material becomes a rusted fixture, resembling a bullet hole grazing the woman’s chest. Rusted water appears to trickle from it, adding a haunting effect as the child gazes up at his mother. Unsettling and laden with symbolism, the piece invites multiple interpretations. The most apparent reference is to the Virgin Mary. However, we predict there will be further connections and interpretations that could be tied within the Christian Church, including recent scandals that led to the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury - all topics and conversations that will continue to spark dialogue.
Banksy's Interpretation Of Classical Themes
This isn’t the first time Banksy has drawn on classical themes in his work. Our Managing Director, Charlotte Stewart, offered her thoughts on the piece, noting, “Banksy’s latest work taps into a recurring theme within his murals and print series - examining the tension between faith, power, and modern society.” She drew connections to earlier print works such as Christ with Shopping Bags, where Jesus is nailed to the cross while clutching shopping bags and Christmas presents, a biting critique of consumerism and the commercialisation of sacred traditions; Toxic Mary, which unsettlingly portrays the Virgin Mary feeding poison to her child, challenges notions of purity and protection; and Cardinal Sin, a sculpture created in 2011 is a chilling commentary on hidden corruption within religious institutions.
Stewart added, “This latest piece follows suit, blending decay and beauty to explore how purity and innocence are so often corrupted in modern life.” The mural also reflects Banksy’s masterful ability to provoke thought, much like Forgive Us Our Trespassing, one of his most famous works - a plea for absolution that intersects graffiti, rebellion, and faith.
The Timing Of The Post
The timing of Banksy’s post is notable. It comes just a week after his Hanging Monkeys from the London Zoo series were removed from Brick Lane. Additionally, its release so close to the Christmas holidays aligns with themes of consumerism, poignantly echoing Christ With Shopping Bags.
Historically, Banksy has often captured media attention during the holiday season. Last year, he used drones on a stop sign to show solidarity with Ukraine. This year, he chose this unique work to spark conversation. While the reasoning behind the post - and its themes - remain unconfirmed, the piece resonates strongly with his previous works, urging viewers to look beyond appearances and question the contradictions within modern society.
Banksy
266 works
