Mackenzie Hurlbert – Managing Editor
Tuxedoed rats in the student center ballroom, girls with balloons on the back walls of Earl Hall, and stenciled soldiers haunting the halls of Engleman—infamous graffiti artist Banksy has officially taken over Southern. As a school that previously had not had much experience with graffiti, the Southern community is responding with various views as to the artist’s sudden presence. “I think it’s cool,” said junior Paul Benjunas. “It adds to the art community here on campus, you know? I really like his work on the outside of the student center. It makes Southern more unique… I mean how many other schools can claim to be tagged by Banksy?”
The unique and unexpected presence of Banksy on Southern’s campus is definitely a surprise considering he is a U.K. based graffiti artist. While Banksy’s identity has remained unknown, the artist’s work is iconic and known for its dark humor, political activism, and meticulously-stenciled detail. While Banksy’s art is recognized worldwide, not all people in the Southern community are as honored to have it spray-painted across campus. “It’s simply vandalism,” said Southern Chief of Police Joseph Dooley. “Whoever this Banksy is, he or she has committed an illegal act and can be jailed or fined. It is not art; it’s a crime.”
One piece of Banksy’s work on campus is calling attention to the costs of higher education. It shows an infant stuffing a dollar in his diaper with the caption “Saving for college.” The work can be found in the men’s bathroom in the basement of Morrill. The illustration has spurred some commentary among students on campus. “It’s so true,” said senior Alex Murray. “Students would have to save since birth in order to afford a college education. I think he’s captured the point beautifully.”
“It’s honestly ridiculous,” said junior Parker Dumont. “We shouldn’t be drained dry for a college education. Leave money in the students’ pockets—don’t overwhelm them with debt before they even graduate.”
“I think that piece is a little over exaggerated,” said sophomore Ryan Doolittle. “Southern’s tuition is actually fairly inexpensive compared to other universities in the state. It’s a fact of life now and there’s really nothing we can do about it. We need the degree, the university needs the money, so we pay. That’s life.”
Another Banksy work can be found on the back side of Jennings hall, facing the duck pond. It depicts a man in a Burger King uniform with a spatula in his hand saying, “I have a bachelor’s degree in ____.” Some students argue that it’s fill-in-the-blank because a bachelor’s degree is simply not enough to compete in the professional world. “Everyone has a bachelor’s degree nowadays,” said senior Georgia Russell. “I know most of my friends who are graduating are continuing on to pursue their masters. Soon, everyone will have a masters and a doctorate will be necessary. It’s depressing and disheartening.”
While Banksy has brought his art to Southern, his work has spurred conflicting reviews over its content, message, and value. While technically illegal, many students feel it is a welcomed addition to Southern’s campus. Nevertheless, Chief Dooley plans to take action. “Whoever this Banksy is,” said Dooley, “we will find him and we will fine him for the damage he has done to our campus.”