Stolen Banksy piece, titled 'The Migrant Child,' pulled for renovation and eventual exhibition at a different location in Venice
In the heart of Venice, Italy, the iconic graffiti artwork "The Migrant Child" by the elusive artist Banksy is currently undergoing restoration. The artwork, which first appeared on the walls of the 17th-century Palazzo San Pantalon in May 2019, has become a significant tourist destination.
The restoration project is being funded and managed by the Venice-based Italian bank Banca Ifis, which owns the building. The bank has entrusted the restoration to restorer Federico Borgogni, who is leading the conservation efforts.
The artwork, depicting a shipwrecked child holding a pink smoke bomb and wearing a lifejacket, has suffered deterioration due to six years of exposure to humidity, salt, and neglect. Approximately one-third of the piece has been damaged.
Once restored, Banca Ifis plans to make the artwork publicly available again. The bank intends to display it during free cultural events organized by their art program (Ifis art). However, no specific timeline or completion date for the restoration and re-display has been announced.
Banca Ifis has not disclosed the cost of the restoration operation. The bank, along with Federico Borgogni, is working closely with people close to Banksy to ensure the restoration is carried out with the utmost care and respect for the original artwork.
Once restored, the artwork will be reinstalled overlooking the Venetian canal, as it was originally placed. The overnight detachment of a section of the palazzo's facade during the restoration process has raised some concerns, but the bank and restorer assure that the structure's integrity is being maintained.
In summary, "The Migrant Child" by Banksy is currently undergoing professional restoration in Venice. Once fully restored, the artwork is expected to return to public view, although the exact reopening date remains unannounced. The restoration is being conducted to address the deterioration caused by six years of neglect, and the restored artwork will be reinstalled overlooking the Venetian canal. The bank intends to display the restored artwork to the public as part of free cultural events organized by Ifis art, but no time frame has been given for the completion and public display of the artwork.
[1] [Article 1] [2] [Article 2] [3] [Article 3]
- The restoration of the art piece "The Migrant Child" by Banksy, a significant addition to Venice's cultural and tourism landscape, is being funded by the Venice-based bank Banca Ifis, with the intention of making it accessible to the public again in the context of their art program (Article 1).
- Post restoration, travelers and art enthusiasts may witness the restored artwork by Banksy during free cultural events organized by Ifis art, showcasing not only the revived piece but also the bank's commitment to promoting lifestyle and culture (Article 3).
