Banksy Venetian Mural Removed for Restoration by Banca Ifis

Banksy's mural 'The Migrant Child,' painted in 2019 on the Palazzo San Pantalon in Venice, has been removed for restoration due to significant deterioration caused by six years of exposure to the elements. The artwork, depicting a shipwrecked child holding a pink smoke bomb and wearing a lifejacket, is one of only two Banksy murals officially recognized in Italy and has become a popular tourist attraction. The removal was executed by art restorers using an innovative technique involving cutting out the wall section, which was funded and organized by Banca Ifis, the building's owner and an active patron of the arts. Federico Borgogni, who has experience working on Banksy's pieces, is overseeing the restoration process, which includes cleaning, stabilizing, and repairing the mural, although severely damaged lower portions will not be recreated. The restored mural will be displayed publicly through free cultural events organized by Banca Ifis, but its permanent location remains undecided. The removal and restoration efforts aim to preserve the mural's long-term stability while maintaining public accessibility.