Art amidst the conflict

Even though I should be studying and not blogging, I could not help but share these amazing images I came across while "studying." The elusive and prolific British graffiti artist Banksy knows how to make a statement. His political and satirical works can be seen even in the Middle East. The works above are all from the Israeli concrete barrier that sections off much of the West Bank. This wall serves as one of the greatest "barriers" to reaching any kind of peaceful resolution between Palestine and Israel. With every concrete section erected, the lesser the likelihood of Palestine participating in peace talks with the Israelis. Israel uses the wall as a protective measure but it is also strategic as it continues to take up Arab land and force Palestinians out of their ancestral homes. Though Banksy is a foreigner, he successfully captures the prospective and the hope of every Palestinian living behind the wall.