Blog
Lojine Kamel

Banksy’s Conservative Liberal

Probably the most famous graffiti artist in the world, Banksy has targeted a wide variety of social and political causes, sending messages through his creative works of art.

Though his August piece of a niqabi woman is old news in the western world, it hasn’t been brought to much reflection in the Middle East. Featuring a niqab clad woman in an apron that gives her the appearance of wearing a bikini, the piece is a hit to conservative values. Though only the woman’s eyes are showing, her body language and stare give her a challenging yet intriguing disposition. She may be in her rightful place – modestly cooking – but one look at the fire in her eyes is enough to convince the world of her spirit.

I applaud Banksy for his provocative work, as many woman who wear niqab are forced to do so. Feminism has yet to catch up in the Arab world, and sensitive pieces like this – though controversial – really hit home with their inherent message.

It’s about time we have our own wave of women’s rights.