Smiling Bag Productions is an artist I’ve been following for a couple of years now. They’re like the Banksy of the Middle East, and provide an insider’s perspective (whereas Banksy comes in to display his outsider’s viewpoint). This particular form of stencil graffiti shines light on the mentality of at least a portion of the population, providing a rather satirical interpretation of current soci0-political issues.

As his peers are, Smiling Bag remains anonymous. It is known that he is a resident of Tel Aviv in his mid-20s. He has not responded to previous attempts to contact him for comments on his artwork, but they can be found online. Check out his Flickr photostream; Contact information is available on DoverD.com. Street renditions of Smiling Bag Productions artwork can be found throughout Tel Aviv, particularly around Rabin Square, Rothschild Street, and the Florentine neighborhood.

Editor’s note/disclaimer: The political and artistic opinions expressed in the artwork below are that solely of the artist and not necessarily shared nor endorsed by Designora.

Cellist in a Gas Mask

Business Man

Schoolgirl

Child with Yo-Yo

Waiting Woman in a Gas Mask

Homeless – “I have no ID. They won’t sell me beer. Will you buy me one?”

A Man Walks His Dog

A Mother Carries Her Child

Punk Dude with Mohawk and Tattoos

Day and Night

Contemplating Woman

The Puppetmaster

Dyeing Queen

Peaceful Police Barricade

Legalize Medical Graffiti