"Rockboy" by Banksy

Robert Bank’s “Rockboy” is still located on the Palestinian side of the Israeli west bank barrier. This is one in a series of pieces found on the same wall. Although the exact day it was painted is uncertain, it is dated somewhere in early 2007.

The scene takes place in a rocky area with debris in the foreground, and a looming cement wall made of individual blocks that create the plane the painting is found on. The combination of real rocks in the foreground and painted ones in the back make the painting seem real at times. The focal point is the lone boy in the middle holding a shovel and pail. He blends in with the sky behind him, yet he stands out as a sad figure. The simplicity of the tones and hues enhance the effect it has on the viewer. It is almost possible to see the boy’s story when you look at his face.