By Caprice Hogg
“His dream is a city full of graffiti where graffiti is not illegal, a city where everyone can paint whatever they want, with walls of fresh paint with millions of colors, short sentences, verses of interesting words, messages to read, often political, but at the same time ironic, of love, peace and hope for a better world.”
With these ideals, Banksy has become an iconic figure all over the world. This fascinating book not only gives an in-depth look at Banksy’s paintings but also at his philosophy on art and life. Banksy’s work is very political but shines a light on the elitism of the art world. His medium is the stencil, which results in stunning lines, shapes, and compositions. Yet, graffiti art painted in public spaces is illegal art—unless you are Banksy in which case that graffiti becomes incredibly valuable, and institutions have made money off of his work.
“Street art guarantees each individual the opportunity to reassert himself in the face of privileged art which has long been considered the only “true art” which for generations has been accessible only to a small elite.”
Banksy believes art is for all and that everyone should be able to see and appreciate all art, which is why his work is in public view.
Banksy likes to “keep it real”. His paintings often portray rats and homeless people; those who are not normally seen. His work takes a political stance on many important issues and truly makes one stop and think. Isn’t that the purpose of art? One of his most controversial paintings was sold at Sotheby’s and the instant the auction hammer struck, the painting began to shred itself. Once again, this is Banksy’s comment on the fickle art industry.
This book gives readers a look at the Banksy phenomenon—despite his fame, no one actually knows what he looks like. He has a small group of friends that help him maintain his anonymity. His paintings pop up across the world and no one knows where the next one will appear. Part of his allure is the mystery that surrounds him. He is thrilled when a painting pops up and no one is really sure if it is an authentic Banksy painting. The paintings create a stir and get people talking. If the paintings are from other graffiti artists, they are just as important to him as his own work.
One of the main themes in this book is that art cannot be stopped, as ideas cannot be stopped. Banksy’s paintings show his ideals for pacifism, peace, justice, and freedom. He tries to give a voice to those who are often overlooked.
For any art lovers who want to enjoy looking at good paintings that are thought-provoking, this book is for you. I love how Banksy’s paintings push the boundaries on what is considered “good art” by the fine art establishment.
Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.