Banksy unveils poignant lighthouse artwork in Marseille
- Banksy shared a new artwork on his Instagram, depicting a lighthouse with the quote, 'I want to be what you saw in me.'
- The mural is located on Rue Félix Frégier in Marseille, a city known for its rich street art culture.
- The artwork's shadowy representation raises discussions on migration issues in Europe.
In Marseille, France, a new artwork by renowned street artist Banksy surfaced, depicting a lighthouse painted on a wall. This mural features the phrase, 'I want to be what you saw in me,' intricately tied to the visual representation of the lighthouse appearing as a shadow from a nearby bollard. It was posted on Banksy's Instagram on May 29, 2025, drawing immediate attention from art enthusiasts and the general public. The location of this artwork was soon verified as Rue Félix Frégier, closely situated to the city's port, a place vibrant with cultural significance and history. The palette of the artwork is predominantly black and white, conveying strong emotional undertones through the juxtaposition of light and shadow. Observers have noted that the piece resembles the metaphor of a lighthouse—a traditional symbol of hope and guidance—yet rendered as the shadow of a barrier, which reflects the political climate regarding migrants in Europe. The mural's unveiling rekindles ongoing conversations about societal issues, highlighting Banksy's ability to intertwine his art with impactful social commentary. Following the posting on Instagram, many fans and curious individuals flocked to the site to engage with the mural, which attracted significant media attention. The spontaneous congregation of tourists and locals alike demonstrates how Banksy’s art continues to resonate powerfully with contemporary audiences, retaining relevance through its allegorical meanings and artistic execution. Marseille, being France's oldest port and a multicultural hub, offers a poignant backdrop for this reflection on migration and societal values. The timing of this artwork aligns with ongoing humanitarian challenges in the Mediterranean, where organizations such as SOS Mediterranee operate extensively in rescuing migrants. The shadowy quality of the lighthouse contrasted with the concrete reality of migration serves as a critical commentary on Europe's complicated relationship with those seeking refuge. Hence, it is speculated that Banksy’s message extends beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to invoke empathy in a region rife with complex socioeconomic issues that echo throughout contemporary Europe.