Viva La Revolución

Revolution can be defined as, “a sudden, radical, or complete change” and often has political or sociological connotations. Littered with revolutions and deep rooted turmoil, the 20th century witnessed the bloody overthrow of many governments as independence movements were born and national identities reshaped borders across the globe. To this backdrop heroic leaders rose. From the luscious blue waters of the Caribbean, to the snow lined streets of Eastern Europe - charismatic talismen seemingly forged the will of their countrymen to throw off the shackles of repression and advance towards a better future. The realities, of course, may be rather different from the dreams yet these iconic figures have etched their stories onto the maps and histories of our world. Two such figures have appeared in original works by Banksy and in today’s article we examine the seminal Che and Lenin on Roller Skates. 

No stranger to controversy, Banksy’s seminal output has seen him transcend from street artist into the pantheons of, quite simply, artist. Bound by no genre, his works grace the collections of many across the globe. Matching his playful yet meaningful subject tones, we see an artist who seeks to challenge and provoke, creating conversations around his works. Banksy’s original artworks straddle the boundaries between fine art and street art and the two, seemingly opposing movements, are united by a visual language rooted in an mischievous juxtaposition - often to devastating effect. 

Lenin on Rollerblades/Skates

Vladimir Lenin (1870-1924) was a Russian communist revolutionary and head of the Bolshevik Party who rose to prominence during the Russian Revolution of 1917, one of the most explosive political events of the twentieth century. Banksy’s 2002 work showcases the artist's ability to take powerful people and symbols and satirise them through a subversive or unexpected twist. Lenin, associated with what was to become to some a brutal and oppressive regime is the symbol of authority who is played with by the artist. Juxtaposed with rollerskates, a symbol themselves of leisure and play, that are branded with one of the most recognisable brands of American capitalism - Nike. The icons of Communism and Capitalism merge to create an unexpectedly funny image that is both humorous and unnerving. Existing as both a work on canvas and as a wooden palette, Lenin on Rollerblades appeared at Andipa’s seminal show Banksy from the collection of Andipa to the delight of many Banksy collectors. On the work, Director Acoris Andipa says, “For over 15 years we have been able to offer the very best in one of my favourite artists to collectors new and old. Having Lenin on Rollerblades at Andipa was a delight to show to our visitors. Not only is the work Banksy at its best, but the work on pallet version was simply stunning both in its size and execution.” 

Che Guevara on Skates