This artwork appeared just a couple of weeks ago on a wall I walk past every day on my way to and from work. I’ve no idea who put it there - perhaps the owner of the house just beyond the wall - but I’m glad it’s there.

Apart from brightening up an otherwise rather drab and boring wall, it gives passers-by something to think about and admire, which is what public art should be all about, surely?

I’m guessing that the artist here is making the point that our attachment to money all too often means that we let go of our dreams and loves, or can’t hold onto both. Or perhaps it’s a comment about the heavy burden of debt, both personal and national, that the western world at least is weighed down by, which sees our joys float away like a lost balloon?

Or perhaps it means something else completely?!

One thing that came to my mind when I first saw this was the verse in 1 Timothy 6:10 where Paul says “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” The obsessive greed and love of material wealth that is so evident in the west certainly does lead to all sorts of terrible things, both on a personal and a corporate level, and ultimately will keep us from ever finding true joy as life slips away, leaving just bitter regret that can never be assuaged. So if an artwork like this pricks at the conscience and helps you readjust your priorities then that’s a good thing, right?

What’s the latest piece of street art that you’ve seen in your area? What did it do for you, if anything? Do please share it in a Hi post so we can all take a look!