Invisibility is a Superpower: Banksy
The 21st century signifies a definite cultural shift. Thoughts and opinions were once hidden, taking the form of private journals or internal dialogues. Currently, one broadcasts personal experiences and views onto the web. Online documentation may have brought the human race closer to the international community, but this culture of oversharing may not always appear favorable.
Social media captures two extremes--the glamorous and tragic. Users of these platforms have made a career sharing their lives and pushing products. Influencers often post highly contrived photos showcasing their seemingly glamorous life to garner appeal. They plaster their names behind any praiseworthy project or post. Since everyone and anyone willing can have a platform, mystery is rare.
Tragedy also contains a strong presence on the platform. The world is one of prevailing racial injustice, environmental degradation, political polarization, and mass violence (to name a few). Awareness is vital, and it inspires movements/change. Individuals witnessed the positive impact of social media on the murder of George Floyd. However, it is without question, media negligence allows flawed and corrupt systems to remain overlooked.
In a climate of existing injustices and diminishing optimism, a little girl with a red balloon helps restore hope. Common to many cities, graffiti decorates the streets of London. However, one image, in particular, that of innocence, left a lasting impression on viewers. This piece was not standalone. Soon more graffiti art was erected unannounced in a similar style and manner throughout London. The technique was consistent, cartoon-like figures with socio-political undertones often decorated with humor. The work was later claimed by Banksy, the alias chosen by the artist. Despite his vast popularity, his true identity remains a mystery.
Banky's art began expanding across Europe, entering the streets of additional cities and inevitably entering the museum space. The Moco Museum in Amsterdam displayed Banksy's work. While browsing the exhibit, a quote is plastered on the museum wall, stating, "I don't know why people are so keen to put the details of their private life in public; they forget that invisibility is a superpower." Invisibility is a superpower, which is often forgotten in this society of oversharing. The value of privacy appears overlooked in a culture that celebrates fame and recognition.
Both Banky's work and persona challenge the socio-political norms many blindly accept. Banksy encourages a reflection on this social media age and political climate. Banksy uses humor and innocence to remind us that there is liberation in privacy, intrigue in mystery, interest in the unknown, and, most importantly, power in invisibility.
“I don’t know why people are so keen to put the details of their private life in public; they forget that invisibility is a superpower.”