Banksy’s most recent creation has emerged in the vibrant streets of Marseille, France, creating buzz among art enthusiasts and the general public alike. On Thursday, the artist showcased a new piece on his Instagram, depicting a beautifully stenciled lighthouse against a neutral beige wall, accompanied by the powerful words: “I want to be what you saw in me.” The artwork plays cleverly with perception, featuring a false shadow cast on the pavement by a nearby bollard, which creatively merges the mundane with artistic intrigue.
Initially, the location of this compelling piece was unknown, but BBC Verify confirmed that it resides on Rue Félix Fregier in the southern French city. The online buzz surrounding the artwork includes an image that captures a blurred figure on a scooter passing by, while a graffiti tag bearing the name “Yaze” is visible further down the wall. This tag corresponds to the works of Canadian artist Marco The Polo, who openly regards Banksy as a significant influence on his own artistic journey.
While Banksy frequently remains shrouded in mystery, his Instagram serves as a crucial platform for the authentication and unveiling of his pieces. His artwork often carries a political message, touching on pressing issues such as immigration, homelessness, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, the meanings behind some of his artworks remain enigmatic, as seen in his series of diverse animals painted throughout London last summer.
Before unveiling the lighthouse, Banksy had also captivated audiences with a December piece depicting a Madonna and child, where a protrusion in the wall strikingly resembled a bullet wound. As Banksy continues to push artistic boundaries, his impact on contemporary street art remains undeniable and inspiring.
