Rosita Cipolla Banksy strikes again! In the space of 24 hours, two enigmatic new works have appeared around London: a hovering goat and two elephants trying to graze each other's trunks. And possible interpretations are multiplying on social media (also in light of the crucial moment that British society is experiencing)
@Banksy
Within just 24 hours, two new works by the legendary Banksy have appeared in London. One of the intriguing stencils, captivating passersby, depicts a goat (or possibly a billy goat) balancing on a narrow ledge just inches away from a surveillance camera. This piece, located in Richmond, is made even more realistic and impactful by the depiction of falling rocks, highlighting the animal’s precarious position. Banksy himself claimed the work by posting a photo on his social media channels:
But the balancing goat wasn’t the only surprise for Londoners. Shortly after, another curious stencil appeared in the capital’s upscale Chelsea neighborhood, featuring two elephants emerging from faux windows, their trunks gently touching.
Once again, the photo was shared online by the famous artist, whose identity remains a mystery.
Interpreting the works
What do these murals mean? Many are trying to decipher the messages behind the world’s most famous street artist’s animal representations, already dubbed “Banksy’s Safari“.
“Humans are aware of what we’re doing to animal life and nature (hence the camera), but we do nothing; nature is about to collapse,” suggests one user, referring to the goat. Some see it as a metaphor for the critical moment the United Kingdom is experiencing, amidst heated protests against immigration.
The goat represents the rebellious spirit of those who feel marginalized or oppressed, fighting against perceived injustices and systemic issues. It also symbolizes the scapegoating of certain groups during times of social unrest. The goat’s precarious position mirrors the fragile state of British society, teetering on the brink of chaos due to recent turmoil. – reads one of the many comments. – This position suggests the limits and vulnerabilities of both protesters and authorities, questioning how far individuals can push against social restrictions and how far the state can go in exerting control without exacerbating tensions.
Many interpretations surround the work featuring the elephants. “The issue is that we need to connect more, love more, and focus on our similarities rather than what divides us!” writes one person, while several fans immediately thought of an allusion to Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam fresco. Others see it as a reference to the English expression “elephant in the room,” indicating issues known to all but unaddressed or minimized.
“No one talks about the elephant in the room, so the elephants talk to each other!” notes one user.
How do you interpret them?
