A mysterious festive addition to one of Banksy's most poignant Birmingham artworks has ignited fresh speculation that the elusive street artist may have made a secret return to the city.
The Mysterious Early Morning Installation
In the early hours of Wednesday, December 17, 2025, witnesses reported a van pulling up to the site of Banksy's iconic homelessness mural on Vyse Street in the Jewellery Quarter. According to locals, traffic cones were placed around the area as a life-size Santa Claus mannequin was installed on the bench featured in the original piece.
The artwork, which first appeared in December 2019, depicts two reindeer appearing to pull a bench like a sleigh, with a homeless person lying on it. The new addition sees the Santa figure tucked into a sleeping bag, wearing worn Tommy Hilfiger trainers and holding a newspaper.
Clues and Charitable Links
Several intriguing details suggest a thoughtful creator behind the stunt. The newspaper held by the Santa is open on a crossword puzzle with specific words filled in, including 'Bank', 'Basil', and 'Peace'. More definitively, a QR code attached to a cardboard box beneath the figure links directly to a donations page for SIFA Fireside, a Birmingham charity supporting adults facing or at risk of homelessness.
Further adding to the narrative, a copy of George Bernard Shaw's 1903 play 'Man and Superman' was placed underneath the mannequin. Local poet Sipho Eric Ndlovu, who was at the scene, added his own spoken word piece, pondering the message of the installation.
Local Reaction and Banksy Speculation
The sudden appearance caused a stir among residents and commuters. Nail technician Ayesha Malik, 27, spotted it on her way to work. "I was a bit startled when I realised it wasn't real. It’s really life-like," she said, adding that she believed it was Banksy's work. Representatives from the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust (JQDT) were seen guarding the updated artwork.
While the anonymous nature of the intervention perfectly mirrors Banksy's guerrilla style, the deliberate connection to a local homelessness charity has led many to wonder. Whether it is the artist himself, a dedicated fan, or another activist, the new layer has successfully reignited conversation about the mural's enduring message on housing insecurity, especially during the festive season.
