The Jungle – Steve Jobs

Banksy’s Steve Jobs Graffiti: When a Picture is worth a Thousand Words

Banksy, the enigmatic street artist, drew the world’s attention to the refugee crisis in Europe in 2015 with a powerful mural. Created in a refugee camp called ‘The Jungle’ in Calais, France, the artwork depicts Apple founder Steve Jobs as a Syrian refugee, reminding the world that the potential of immigrants is priceless. It is not just graffiti, but a profound social critique of inclusion, prejudice and human destiny.

What exactly does “The Jungle” mural depict?

The mural, unveiled in December 2015, shows Steve Jobs in his distinctive black turtleneck and jeans, carrying a black garbage bag on one shoulder and an early Apple computer in the other hand. The image clearly symbolises a man on the move, looking for a new life.

The main elements of a work of art and their meaning:

• Steve Jobs as a Refugee: The well-known icon is portrayed in a vulnerable, vulnerable position, breaking down the walls between “us” and “them”.
• The Garbage Bag: a universal symbol of migration and destitution, referring to the poor things refugees carry with them.
• The Apple Computer: a symbol of the genius, innovation and potential that refugees carry.

What is Steve Jobs’ connection to Syrian Immigration?

It is no coincidence that Jobs was chosen as the protagonist of this work of art. Banksy wanted to confront us with the fact that Steve Jobs’ biological father, Abdulfattah “John” Jandali, was a Syrian immigrant from the city of Homs who came to the United States to study. It was here that Jobs met his mother, Joanne Schieble, and in 1955 they adopted their son Steve.

Banksy made his message clear in a statement accompanying his work:

“We often think that migration is draining the country’s resources, but Steve Jobs was the son of a Syrian immigrant. Apple is the world’s most profitable company, paying more than $7 billion in taxes a year – and it only exists because they let in a young man from Homs.”

Social Dialogue and Responsibility

Banksy’s graffiti of Steve Jobs is a perfect example of how art can provoke thought and start important social dialogues. The artwork reminds us that:

• Every person has potential: where you come from or where you are does not determine your worth or what you can contribute to the world.
• Inclusion can also bring economic benefits: an inclusive society that gives talent a chance can benefit in the long run.
• Storytelling can change perspectives: one powerful image can challenge negative stereotypes about immigration.

This artwork encourages us to stay open, to be curious and to always look behind things, people and stories. It is our responsibility not to remain indifferent and to convey value-based messages through our own means, be it communication, marketing or simple dialogue.

Frequently asked questions about Banksy’s work

Where is this Banksy mural located? The original artwork was painted on the wall of a refugee camp in Calais, France, known as “The Jungle” in 2015. The camp has since been dismantled.

Why is Steve Jobs’ origins important? The story of Steve Jobs shows the enormous value that immigrants and their children can create if given the chance. His example refutes the preconceptions that migration is a burden on a country.

Use Your Voice for Change!

Banksy’s courage and creativity can be an inspiration to us all. Your business communication can reflect the values you believe in.

Do you want a marketing strategy that not only sells, but also creates value and sends positive messages? Contact me and I’ll help you find your company’s unique voice!

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