The Art of Banksy

by Matt Langford on February 23, 2009 · Comments

Banksy Tag

For those of you not in the know, Banksy is one of the most controversial and popular artists of today. While some may consider his art a nuisance, no one can deny his uniqueness and courage in continuing to display it.

Whether it be in art galleries, on public buildings, or in war zones, his art generally communicates a pretty obvious message. The rats, policeman, soldiers, children, and other characters in his graffiti/stencil style art normally portray a message of anti-war and anti-capitalism. He’s known for his risky stunts, his unusual and risky canvases, and his anonymity.

While there has yet to be a conclusive report detailing the identity of Banksy, the UK Daily Mail believes they have uncovered the truth. In an article in July 2008, they claim that Banksy is in fact a man from Bristol, England named Robin Gunningham. Although, they offer a disclaimer in the closing of the article:

Given Banksy’s long-standing success at covering his tracks, there is, of course, the possibility that the trail we have been following is a red herring, a complex set-up. But if it is, it must be the most elaborate such ruse ever concocted.

Have a look at some of these unique amazing paintings that can be found all across the world:

  • Lisa
    I wish I could upload a pic right here ... I happened to find a Banksy in a parking lot! I was cool see one live. I took two photos with my cell phone.
  • Lisa, contact me through my contact form and I'll give you a way to upload some pics!
  • Michele, from what I could find, he does sign them. Also, the art critics say that his style is so unique that others can't duplicate it very well. Having said that, a lot of people believe that "Banksy" is a large group of painters, not an individual.

    I would never claim my art. But only because I would be embarrassed if people knew that most 3rd graders can draw/paint/sculpt better than me.
  • I gotta say, I agree with Michele. I don't know much about Banksy and will definitely do more research on him/her/them, but I'm gonna go with the theory that Banksy is a group of people, similar to the Shakespeare theory. I'm a big fan of mysteries and the artwork is tight. Gotta figure this one out, thanks for the exposure!
  • If you happen to find some more info, be sure to let me know!
  • Wow, neat blog. This guy is an amazing artist, but how do they know that it's the same guy that did all of them? Does he sign them?
    You know, artists like Michelangelo rarely ever signed their work. If I were that good, I'd make it a point to make my claim. :)

    <abbr>Michele’s last blog post..Girl Nailed to Death by Bird</abbr>
  • Alisha, When you said Matisse, I immediately thought of the book/movie The Pelican Brief. Good stuff!

    Krista, it's another one of my secret identities. Shhh.

    Alyssa, I'm sure Banksy plans to visit Marshall one day...
  • I really like your new blog look! and your i-map at the top!

    this artist is really talented! i was just telling Taylor, my boyfriend, the other day that if you're going to vandalize a wall you better be good at grafitti!
    (of course i was referring to the random spray painted mess on the bridges in Marshall...)
  • Jeremy, I've used Lightbox in the past, but I didn't like some of the stuff it did on the backend... I'm considering a secondary option though!
  • Stop being modest. Banksy is really you.
  • Great blog! I've seen a bit of Banksy's stuff (on Digg) and it's pretty neato.

    On a side note, I would recommend some fancy js stuff to handle your photos (something NyroModal-ish). I'm sure you can think of something :)
  • Alisha Tynes
    I really like Matisse as an artist, but this guy does some cool stuff too!!
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