Banksy captured London’s attention with two identical murals that appeared just days before Christmas, depicting children bundled in winter coats, hats, and wellington boots lying on the ground, with one pointing toward the sky. The works reflect a subtle, human-centered commentary, signaling a quieter approach compared with the artist’s politically charged pieces earlier in the year.
Locations and Presentation
The first mural surfaced on December 20 outside the Centre Point tower near Tottenham Court Road, while the second appeared on garages at Queen’s Mews in Bayswater. Banksy confirmed the Bayswater piece via Instagram on December 22, highlighting the child’s finger aligning with a red light on a nearby crane to evoke the Star of Bethlehem. The choice of Centre Point is especially symbolic, as the skyscraper was historically linked to housing protests and lent its name to the homelessness charity Centrepoint.
Interpretation and Context
Observers and art experts have interpreted the murals as a commentary on youth homelessness during the holiday season. This series contrasts with Banksy’s September mural at the Royal Courts of Justice, which drew attention for its political critique of government actions. In comparison, the stargazing works are reflective, emphasizing human themes over overt activism.