Banksy’s Christmas Messages “Peace on Earth” and “Cherubs”, Bethlehem, Palestine 2017
The elusive Banksy returned to Bethlehem in December 2017 with two festive works created close to The Walled Off Hotel and the West Bank separation barrier. Cherubs and Peace on Earth brought familiar Christmas imagery into direct conversation with division, conflict and the enduring hope for peace.
The first work depicts two cherubs attempting to prise apart the separation wall with crowbars. Through the narrow opening between the concrete sections, a glimpse of blue sky becomes visible, giving the image a simple but powerful sense of possibility beyond the barrier.
Banksy’s second Christmas message appeared near the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The words “Peace on Earth” are accompanied by one of the artist’s characteristic twists, transforming a familiar seasonal sentiment into something more politically charged.
The Star of Bethlehem becomes an asterisk beside the phrase, directing the viewer to a footnote beneath the work that reads “Terms and conditions apply.” Banksy’s addition gives the universal promise of peace an uneasy qualification, particularly within the context of Bethlehem and the surrounding conflict.
The works coincided with The Alternativity, Banksy and Danny Boyle’s alternative Nativity production in Bethlehem, directed with Palestinian theatre-maker Riham Isaac and opening on Sunday 3 December 2017 in The Walled Off Hotel car park.
Peace on Earth and Cherubs belong to a much wider history of Banksy’s work in the region, where images of peace, childhood and hope repeatedly meet the physical reality of the wall. Explore the complete guide to Banksy’s art in Palestine.
Why Banksy’s Christmas Messages Matter
By using cherubs and the familiar phrase “Peace on Earth”, Banksy drew upon imagery deeply associated with Christmas while placing it within the contemporary landscape of Bethlehem. The contrast gives both works their strength, allowing symbols of peace and hope to sit directly beside the physical architecture of division.
Discover Banksy
Explore Banksy artworks at GraffitiStreet or contact Banksy specialist Rosh Boroumand for availability, sourcing and acquisitions.
Photographs courtesy of our tour guide and friend Alaa Asakrah
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