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Banksy, the enigmatic street artist known for his politically charged and socially motivated artwork, has left a profound mark on contemporary art and culture. Among his many thought-provoking statements, Banksy’s “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable” serves as a powerful mantra that encapsulates his approach to art and activism.
The Origins of “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.”
This memorable quote gained traction in the early 2000s as Banksy began to push against the boundaries of traditional art. His graffiti pieces evolved into powerful social commentary.
Banksy’s statement serves as a modern reinterpretation of an idea introduced by early 20th-century American satirist Finley Peter Dunne, the son of Irish immigrants wrote a popular syndicated column. Through his fictional Irish character bar tender ‘Mr Dooley,’ Dunne humorously explored the immense influence of newspapers during that era, highlighting their role in shaping public opinion and discourse.
“Th’ newspaper does ivrything f’r us. It runs th’ polis foorce an’ th’ banks, commands th’ milishy, conthrols th’ ligislachure, baptizes th’ young, marries th’ foolish, comforts th’ afflicted, afflicts th’ comfortable, buries th’ dead an’ roasts thim aftherward.”
A modern translation of Mr. Dooley’s statement in Newspaper Publicity 1902.
“The newspaper does everything for us. It runs the police force and the banks, commands the militia, controls the legislature, baptises the young, marries the foolish, comforts the afflicted, afflicts the comfortable, buries the dead and roasts them afterward.”
While Dunne’s quote has been widely recognised, the first reference to “disturbed” instead of “afflicted” appeared in a 1997 poem by Mexican poet and academic Cesar A. Cruz. His graphic poem, titled “To Comfort The Disturbed, and to Disturb the Comfortable: Onward Children of the Sun,” explores the horrific acts humans inflict upon one another through imperialism, war, capitalism, bigotry, and censorship.
Banksy – Laugh Now (Unsigned).
Find artwork at GraffitiStreet here
Banksy: Art as a Reflection of Society
Banksy’s statement “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable” underscores how his art often confronts pressing issues such as war, poverty, and systemic injustice. His work serves to challenge societal norms and provoke thought among his audience. The essence of the quote highlights the dual role of art in society—both as a source of solace for the struggling, known as the “disturbed,” and as a vehicle for unsettling those who have grown comfortable within the status quo, referred to as the “comfortable.”
For the disturbed, art acts as a reflection of their experiences, fears, and hopes, providing motivation and understanding. It offers a space for their struggles to be seen and acknowledged, fostering a sense of community.
Banksy – Napalm Print
Find artwork at GraffitiStreet here
Banksy: Challenging the Comfortable
Conversely, the latter half of the quote emphasises the responsibility of art to unsettle and provoke introspection among the comfortable. By challenging complacency, Banksy’s work compels viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths of their own reality. His use of irony, humour, and stark imagery draws attention to serious issues that are often overlooked or ignored.
A prime example of this is Banksy’s artwork ‘Flower Thrower’, which depicts a protester throwing a bouquet of flowers instead of a weapon, symbolising the power of non-violence in the face of aggression. Such pieces serve as a wake-up call for those who may be complacently drifting through societal issues.
Banksy – Love is in the Air (Flower Thrower) Image copyright GraffitiStreet.com
Banksy: Art in Public Spaces
Banksy’s art frequently appears in public spaces, making it accessible to a broad audience. This method reinforces the idea that art should exist in everyday life, sparking conversations and igniting change. His work serves as a reminder that art possesses a unique ability to influence societal perceptions and behaviours.
As viewers engage with Banksy’s artworks, they are prompted to reflect on their own positions: Are they the disturbed, seeking comfort and understanding, or are they the comfortable, needing to be shaken from their apathy?
Banksy – Nola (Blue/Green Edition) Print
Find artwork at GraffitiStreet here
Banksy’s Artistic Mission
The Banksy quote, “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable,” powerfully encapsulates the provocative essence of Banksy’s artistic mission. It challenges both artists and audiences alike to seek deeper meanings within art and recognise its potential as a catalyst for social change.
In a world where many feel voiceless or unheard, Banksy reminds us that art can serve as both a refuge and a call to action. It inspires us to think critically and compassionately about the world we inhabit. As T.S. Eliot aptly stated, “The purpose of literature is to turn blood into ink.” Elliot takes this concept further by bringing suffering to life, allowing others to find solace or motivation in the narrative of their struggles.
Banksy – Choose Your Weapon (Khaki)
Purchase this print here
Ultimately, Banksy’s artworks invites us to engage, reflect, and, most importantly, to act in the face of adversity, ensuring that the voices of the disturbed are heard and that the comfortable are challenged.
GraffitiStreet Presents
‘Banksy Editions: Volume 1‘
At GraffitiStreet Gallery, we are excited to announce our upcoming exhibition, ‘Banksy Editions: Volume 1’. This curated collection features Pest Controlled authenticated Banksy limited edition prints, and collectibles and will be on display from Saturday, April 12th, 2025, to May 11th, 2025.
Our opening hours are as follows:
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Please note: We will be closed on Easter Sunday.
To enhance your visit, we offer private appointments from Monday to Thursday, allowing for a more intimate viewing of our collection. We encourage you to reach out in advance to schedule your dedicated time.
Location:
GraffitiStreet
25a West Street
England, PO19 1QW
For the full PDF of the curated Banksy collection please contact our founder and Banksy specialist, Rosh Boroumand.
