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In 2008, the world-renowned street artist Banksy created a series of striking public art pieces in various neighbourhoods across New Orleans. The pieces appeared on the third anniversary of the devastating Hurricane Katrina, which had left the city in ruins in 2005.
Banksy’s artworks carried powerful messages about the social and political issues facing the city. The artworks were scattered around different parts of the city, including the Faubourg Marigny, the bustling Mid-City, the historic Tremé, and the devastated Lower 9th Ward.
Each piece was unique and showcased Banksy’s distinct style of combining bold imagery with thought-provoking commentary. Some of the artworks were direct commentaries on the government’s slow and inadequate response to the hurricane, while others explored the racial and class divides that plagued the city.
“I looked out the window of the taxi on the drive into New Orleans and remarked ‘There’s still so much devastation – I can’t believe they haven’t cleaned this mess up’ to which the driver stared at me and said ‘This part of the city wasn’t affected by the hurricane – its always looked like this.’ “
Banksy
The murals include a young boy flying a fridge like a kite and Abraham Lincoln as a homeless man. These murals were a poignant reminder of the suffering the people of New Orleans endured due to the government’s inaction.
Image credit Banksy / banksy.blog
Banksy’s artworks also challenged the efforts of Fred Radtke, aka the “Grey Ghost,” a local anti-graffiti vigilante who had been painting over street art in the city for years.
“I came to New Orleans to do battle with the Gray Ghost, a notorious vigilante who’s been systematically painting over any graffiti he can find with the same shade of grey paint since 1997. Consequently he’s done more damage to the culture of the city than any section five hurricane could ever hope to achieve.”
Banksy
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Image credit Banksy / banksy.blog
Although many of the murals created by Banksy in New Orleans were either removed or vandalized over time, there is one that remains in the heart of the city to this day. Known as “Nola,” this famous mural has been preserved by the people of New Orleans and serves as a lasting tribute to Banksy’s impactful visit and the issues he highlighted through his art.
Image credit Banksy / banksy.blog
Image credit Banksy / banksy.blog
