Restoring Banksy's 'Migrant Child': A Renaissance in Venice

Venice is undergoing a cultural revitalization as scaffolding is erected to restore Banksy's mural, 'Migrant Child.' This artwork, endangered by the lagoon city's humidity, will be preserved by Banca Ifis, who plans to convert the site into an exhibition space for the Venice Biennale.

Scaffolding has been erected in Venice as efforts begin to restore a mural by the elusive street artist Banksy. This artwork, titled "Migrant Child," emerged six years ago on the side of a 17th-century building in the lagoon city.

The mural, depicting a boy in a life jacket holding a pink flare, symbolizes Banksy's support for migrant sea rescue charities. It faces the peril of fading due to Venice's notorious humidity, particularly being painted on the canal-facing wall of a crumbling palazzo.

The building, recently acquired by the Italian bank Banca Ifis, is set for complete restoration, including the mural. Banca Ifis plans to transform Palazzo San Pantalon into an exhibition space connected to the Venice Biennale, with Zaha Hadid Architects leading the renovation project.

(With inputs from agencies.)