Banksy was here

Banksy. To many, the name, like the ubiquitous spray-painted overpasses in metro Detroit, falls into the realm of another juvenile delinquent trying to make their mark on our city. That is, to those passing the artwork without stopping to take a look.

Here in Detroit we have thousands of neighborhood artists, many looking to express as well as make a name for themselves through the tagging of local landmarks. That’s where Banksy differs. He is secretive, and for a long time, unknown and anonymous, yet simultaneously one of the most famous graffiti artists in the world.

Two years ago, Banksy was officially unmasked, but it still hasn’t stopped him from creating world-renowned artwork in urban and suburban landscapes.

So why all the love for Banksy? It’s simple – his work has meaning. The messages are clear, require little interpretation, yet often leave you thinking for hours. And, perhaps more importantly, the man with the can of Krylon finally paid a visit to Detroit. His visit coincided with the release of his film, “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” chronicling a French immigrant in L.A. who possesses an obsession of street art.

His four pieces of work, only one now in its original place on the side of a seemingly abandoned warehouse in Warren, south of 12 Mile on Van Dyke, offer silent commentary on the surrounding community.

So what does this mean for Detroit? Does a Banksy visit signify economic recovery and a realization that all that once was needs to change? Probably not. It can mean whatever you choose to pull from it. That one of the world’s most famous artists visited our city and made his mark. That he researched, at least a little, and put time and effort into being a part of this city’s creative community. Or that he simply wanted a bit of free press for his movie premiere.

Whatever meaning you choose, try to swing by the Warren warehouse and see his work in person. Just like visiting Detroit, while pictures may make you think, experiencing it live will inspire.