Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Bradley Jolly

New Banksy appears in Birmingham to highlight plight faced by homeless at Christmas

This stunning artwork is Banksy's new creation - and it depicts a poignant message about homelessness this Christmas.

The painted mural appeared today on a brick wall in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.

And a video the fabled artist posted on his Instagram page tells an emotional story of a homeless man called Ryan.

As Birmingham Live reports, Ryan has a drink in the footage and settles down on the bench by the wall.

The camera pans outwards and show a pair reindeers appearing to spirit him away into the star-filled sky.

It is believed Banksy disguised himself as a workman to complete the installation.

It is believed Banksy disguised himself as a workman to create this (Banksy)

Martin Clarke, a jeweller at nearby Vault 88, said: "I saw a small tent with a couple lads in high-vis vests early in the morning on Friday. I thought they were from the council and were just doing a bit of upkeep.

"About half six I looked out the window and the tent had gone as had the lads. Then I saw it.

"I thought it was great. We weren't sure what it was at first or who did it but we had a good idea."

The Banksy mural sends a message about homelessness (Banksy)
A poignant homeless mural by Banksy has been unveiled in Birmingham (Birmingham Live)

And a message on the fabled artist’s instagram said: "God bless Birmingham.

"In the 20 minutes we filmed Ryan on this bench passers-by gave him a hot drink, two chocolate bars and a lighter - without him ever asking for anything. #Banksy."

Other business owners and twitter users shared their joy.

Phil Simpkin, manager of the Stone Room, said: "It's fantastic for the area and a big boost. Hopefully more people will come to the Jewellery Quarter to see the mural."

Big-hearted donors gave rough sleepers hot drink and chocolate bars in the city today (Birmingham Live)

Stand Agency tweeted: “drawing attention to homelessness this #Christmas in Birmingham in his trademark hard-hitting fashion.

"It’s also heart-warming to hear about the kindness and generosity of people walking past as this was being filmed."

Another account said: "God Bless #Birmingham #Banksy highlights #homelessness."

Banksy is an anonymous England-based street artist, vandal, political activist, and film director, active since the 1990s.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.