What can kids learn from a graffiti artist? Lessons from Banksy

Banksy, a British street artist, is in residence on the streets of New York this month. Banksy’s primary medium is graffiti, designed as social commentary and meant to provoke.

I realize that a graffiti artist might not be every parent’s first choice as a role model for their children. But when I found myself checking for the latest installation today, I was struck by how “even a child” can easily find meaning in his work.

This accessibility is no accident. Banksy often puts children at the center of his art. So what lessons might this graffiti artist have for children?

Here are some possibilities, with hyperlinks to this month’s New York pieces:

Children matter.Animals matter. Sometimes you have to break the rules. Always check your sources.Sometimes the thing you’re looking for is right under your nose.Not everyone is happy after a McDonald’s Happy Meal. Never forget. Be yourself. Helium balloons make your voice sound really funny. 

Are you a Banksy fan? Do you think he is an artist or a vandal? Do your children know about his work? What do they make of it? Check back for a follow-up piece where children will share their interpretations of Banksy’s work.