
The Symbolic Meaning of Child Figures in Banksy's Works
Chapter from the book:
Bakar Fındıkcı,
M.
(ed.)
2025.
Transformation of Design: Current Approaches in Graphic Arts.
Synopsis
In Banksy's works, child figures are at the center of the artist's social and political criticism, becoming powerful symbols of innocence, fragility, hope, war, poverty and social criticism. The stencil technique frequently used by the artist makes these figures an effective tool for the transmission of social messages. Banksy's works such as “Girl with Balloon”, “No Future”, “Kids on Guns” and “Bomb Hugger” deal with the destructive effects of war and social injustice on children, while “Seasons Greetings” and “Borodyanka” draw attention to the effects of environmental and social crises on children. In this study, the symbolic meanings attributed to child figures in Banksy's works were analyzed through qualitative research method. The study reveals that the child figures in the artist's works are not only a visual element, but also a powerful tool that deepens criticism and calls the audience to action. The themes of innocence and hope that the artist presents through child figures also leave a strong emotional impact on the viewer as carriers of the call for social change. While Banksy's works present social criticism with an accessible visuality and universal language, the figures of children are at the center of the artist's critical approach. These figures emphasize the power of art in social change by encouraging the viewer to think and act. As a result, the figures of children in Banksy's works make visible complex social issues such as war, poverty and environmental crises. These figures offer viewers symbols of hope and innocence, while at the same time making them question systemic injustices. Banksy's art is an effective tool for social criticism and awareness-raising through the use of children's figures, while calling on viewers to build a more just and sustainable world.