Shadow becomes art in Banksy’s latest street mural

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People came to see a recent artwork attributed to street artist Banksy on May 30, 2025 in Marseille, France. 

MARSEILLE, France - A quiet street in Marseille suddenly became a destination for art lovers after a mysterious mural appeared overnight. By Friday morning, the elusive street artist Banksy had claimed credit for the piece—without a caption, but with unmistakable style.

Painted on a wall at 1 Rue Félix Frégier in the city’s 7th arrondissement, the mural features a weathered lighthouse casting a crisp white beam of light. Stenciled within the beam are the words: "I want to be what you saw in me." The beam aligns perfectly with the shadow of a metal post on the street, integrating the real and the painted in a striking visual.

What does the new Banksy mural mean?

What they're saying:

The phrase has no official explanation, but its emotional pull has sparked wide interpretation—some see a reference to a Lonestar ballad, others a personal love letter. Many observers describe it as one of Banksy’s more reflective, inward-facing works.

"It feels quieter. More interior," one Instagram user wrote.

Despite the artist’s reputation for political commentary, this mural appears to explore themes of identity, recognition, and longing. Still, it arrives just ahead of two major Banksy exhibitions opening in the south of France, adding to its cultural resonance.

Where is the Banksy mural located?

Local perspective:

The mural is located near the sea in the Catalans district of Marseille. Local news reports say crowds began forming within hours of its appearance, with tourists snapping photos and locals stopping to admire it—many for the first time.

Even Marseille’s mayor, Benoît Payan, acknowledged the moment, posting "Marseille x Banksy" with a flame emoji on social media. The hashtag #BanksyMarseille quickly trended.

How does this piece fit into Banksy’s body of work?

The backstory:

Banksy’s art often blends satire with social critique, but he’s also known for deeply personal work. His murals have tackled everything from war to migration to capitalism. In recent years, he’s painted on destroyed buildings in Ukraine, refugee boats in the Mediterranean, and even London stop signs.

Some of his works have sold for millions or been stolen shortly after appearing. Others are quickly vandalized or removed. But this one, at least for now, remains untouched—open to the street, the light, and the public.

The Marseille mural comes just ahead of a major Banksy retrospective opening June 14 at the Museum of Art in Toulon, which will feature 80 pieces. Another exhibition opens Saturday in Montpellier.