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“The Migrant Child” by Banksy detached from canal wall of Palazzo San Pantalon as part of the artwork’s restoration process

Following years of weathering and decay resulting in approximately 30% loss of the original artwork, the restoration of “The Migrant Child” – a 2019 work by Banksy located on the canal wall of Palazzo San Pantalon in Venice – is underway by leading art conservationist Federico Borgogni.

In a process beginning two months ago – and working with the tides of Venice’s lagoon – this week, the artwork has been detached from the wall of the palazzo and transported to a laboratory where Borgogni will reposition the mural on a honeycomb support, suitable for the long-term conservation process.

Depicting a child standing in water holding a pink distress flare and seeking assistance, “The Migrant Child” is powerful commentary on the global refugee crisis.

After its restoration, the mural will be placed on public display by Banca Ifis.

The preservation of “The Migrant Child” is part of a comprehensive renovation of Palazzo San Pantalon, a 16th-century structure currently derelict and in disrepair which became the focus of a major restoration by Banca Ifis in 2024 supported by the mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, and the president of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia.

Selected through international competition Zaha Hadid Architects is working with Venice’s Th&Ma Architettura and Banca Ifis to restore the palazzo as a contemporary art space for young artists that is also connected with Venice Biennale programming.

The restoration of the mural and palazzo continue Banca Ifis commitment to Italy’s cultural programming and historical artistic legacy.