A dark manger scene by British street artist Banksy was unveiled at a hotel in Bethlehem in the israeli-controlled West Bank.
The “Scar of Bethlehem" shows the manger of Jesus next to Israel’s separation barrier, the BBC reported. The Nativity scene was set against concrete blocks that appear to be pierced by a mortar shell, creating the shape of a star, according to The Times of Israel.
On Instagram, the artist, known for his political statements in his art, called his work a “modified Nativity.”
Banksy’s work is displayed in Bethlehem’s Walled Off hotel, which is a collaboration between the hotel’s owners and the artist, the BBC reported. All rooms at the hotel overlook a concrete section of a barrier built by Israel, The Times of Israel reported.
Hotel manager Wissam Salsaa told the BBC that Banksy was using the Christmas story to show how Palestinians in the West Bank were living.
“It is a great way to bring up the story of Bethlehem, the Christmas story, in a different way - to make people think more,” Salsaa told the network.
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