Banksy, whose true identity remains shrouded in secrecy, has been a user of Apple products for over 15 years, beginning with the iPhone in 2007 and later embracing the iPad when it first hit the market. These devices have played a crucial role in his artistic journey, enabling him to create striking pieces of art that have adorned locations as iconic as Westminster Abbey's glass window and various exhibitions.
Who is Banksy?
Banksy's emergence as a street artist can be traced back to Bristol in the early 1990s, where he initially experimented with spray paint on trains before taking to public spaces around the city. His distinctive style often employs stencils, allowing him to convey powerful images and thought-provoking slogans infused with political, social, and cultural significance.
Recognizing the legal implications associated with "street art" and "graffiti," Banksy chose to remain anonymous, though his name began to accompany the graffiti that began popping up across Bristol. As his notoriety grew in the early 2000s, his work began to surface in cities across the UK and around the world.
Here are some of Banksy's most renowned street art pieces from different corners of the world:
Margate
Banksy's "Valentine's Day Mascara" mural, unveiled on February 14, 2023, in Margate, depicts a 1950s housewife with a missing tooth and a swollen eye placing a man in a freezer. This artwork sheds light on the issue of domestic violence and will find a permanent home at Margate's Dreamland theme park.
Horenka, Kyiv
In November 2022, Banksy created multiple murals in war-torn Ukraine, particularly in Horenka, a village near Kyiv. These artworks carry his signature style, blending satire and political commentary to express solidarity with Ukraine.
Bristol
Banksy's hometown features several of his iconic works, including "The Mild Mild West," a mural from 1997 depicting a teddy bear hurling a Molotov cocktail at riot police.
London
The UK capital boasts numerous Banksy pieces, such as "If Graffiti Changed Anything – It Would Be Illegal" in Fitzrovia and "Shop Until You Drop" in Mayfair, which offer commentary on political activism and consumerism.
Brighton
In 2004, Banksy created "Kissing Coppers" on the wall of The Prince Albert Pub, initially removed but later replicated to remain accessible to the public.
New York
Banksy's "Hammer Boy" on 79th Street showcases a child playing with a hammer, creatively incorporating urban elements into his art. Another piece, "Waiting in Vain at the Door of the Club," depicts a man holding wilting flowers outside a club on 678 W 51st Street.
Chicago
The city features Banksy's "Baby Carriage Moving Downstairs," created in 2010, as a reference to a classic scene from the Chicago movie "The Untouchables."
Los Angeles
Banksy's "Swing Girl" on S Broadway suggests the need for safe urban spaces for children to play.
San Francisco
Though many of Banksy's works in the city have been covered or removed, "If at First You Don’t Succeed – Call an Airstrike" on Broadway criticises US politics, and "Bird Singing in Tree" in the Mission district showcases a bird singing on a small tree trunk.
New Orleans
Banksy commemorated the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina with pieces like "Umbrella Girl" on Kerlerec Street, symbolising the event's impact.
Paris
In 2018, Banksy's works marked the 50th anniversary of the 1968 student uprisings, including "Minnie Mouse" on Rue Maitre Albert, alluding to consumerism.
Bethlehem
Banksy's political commentary shines through in works like "Pillow Fight" at the Walled Off Hotel, which overlooks the Israeli West Bank barrier, and "Armored Dove," a symbolic take on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Banksy's elusive identity may remain a mystery, but his art continues to make a profound impact worldwide, addressing critical social and political issues while pushing the boundaries of street art.
Explore original Banksy art for sale and Banksy signed prints for sale at Andipa. Contact our gallery via sales@andipa.com or call +44 (0)20 7581 1244 for further information.