Monday, October 30, 2017

Connor Norton - Trump and Netanyahu make out in a giant protest mural on West Bank separation wall

An Australian graffiti artist by the name of Lushsux has recently painted a mural depicting Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu kissing on a border wall separating Israel and Palestine in an attempt to draw attention to the conflict between the two groups. It got widespread attention for a few days, but was then painted over in pale pink by an anonymous artist, most likely out of deference to one or both leaders, to which Lushsux responded by repainting over the original mural a picture of Netanyahu smiling, giving a thumbs up, and saying in all caps "NICE". This is only the most recent example of art on the border wall in protest, and only the most recent example of controversial art done by Lushsux, who has a bit of a history (you're welcome to look him up).

Now, I know this is not entirely (in fact, mostly not) American history, but I think this piece of news ties well with the graffiti on the Berlin wall, a structure who's history we definitely played a role in. The Berlin wall, at least the west side, is famously covered in artwork done by protesters since the wall was erected and has become a powerful art instillation in Berlin, tied to its tumultuous history and the rebellious spirit of its citizens. It looks like the wall in Israel/Palestine may become a similar symbol.

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