Banksy: Mysterious street artist's 'modified nativity scene' appears in Bethlehem hotel
The work depicts life for Palestinians using Israel's separation barrier
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Mysterious street artist Banksy has created a “modified Nativity” scene at a hotel in Bethlehem.
The work, titled the “Scar of Bethlehem”, depicts Jesus’s manger in front of the separation barrier in Israel. Following what seems to be an an attempt to destroy it, the damage has caused a dent in the shape of a star, which looks over the scene.
While the International Court of Justice has said the barrier is illegal, Israel has maintained ever since construction was approved in 2000 that it’s required to prevent terror attacks.
Palestinians, though, believe it’s an attempt to claim land. The barrier crosses the West Bank village of Bir Nabala, situated between Jerusalem and Ramallah.
Banksy collaborated with the owners of Bethlehem’s Walled Off hotel to create the work, which depicts life for Palestinians in the West Bank.
“It is a great way to bring up the story of Bethlehem, the Christmas story, in a different way – to make people think more,” hotel manager Wissam Salsaa said.
Salsaa said Banksy was “trying to be a voice for those that cannot speak”.
The words “love” and “peace” can be seen painted on the barrier in the background.
Earlier this month, Banksy’s new street art in Birmingham, painted to highlight homelessness this Christmas, was vandalised after just one day.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments