Banksy, poverty, and a painted elephant

In Banksy's AMAZING new show in LA, amongst all his work is a live painted pink elephant named Tai.

Like all of Banksy's work, this installation deals with social issues such as poverty, celebrity, militarism, etc.

I think his work effectively gets a message across... although it is a bit ironic in the midst of such a star-studded art exhibit located in the belly of the celebrity beast.

Cards handed out at the opening read: "There's an elephant in the room. There's a problem we never talk about." The statement went on to say that many people live below the poverty line.
His use of a live elephant has created a lot of attention; but has it drawn attention to poverty?
The use of 'shock' is a trite reactionary tool.

Critics has rightfully blasted Banksy for using a live elephant. However, I see this as a slippery position for if liberals and animal rights/liberation activists line up against Banksy, they are potentially positioning themselves against Banksy's fight against poverty. They may also be further alienating themselves into obscurity.