Are You Using That Chair?
Inspired by the 1942 work “The Nighthawks” by the great American realist Edward Hopper, “Are You Using That Chair” is a 2005 large-scale oil on canvas piece by Banksy. Forgoing his more well-known stencil style, the work painted by hand showcasing Banksy’s ability as a painter.
Hopper’s original version has been humorously interpreted by Banksy to include what one would imagine is the stereotypical British football hooligan or even a Brit abroad. The figure (complete with Union Jack swim shorts) points angrily to the cracked window of an American diner as two plastic deck chairs (the types found outside of continental bars) lay strewn next to the skin headed man. The impressive work, some 200×400 cm, can be read as a scathing attack on nationalism and recalls scenes of British football Hooligans of Euro 2004 where the images of British thugs throwing such chairs was broadcast around the world.
Central to the work is the identity of the anonymous chair thrower. What can we deduce from the figure? His class - shaven head and pierced ears suggesting lower class, his race - white, his nature - aggressive and angry. The powerful work by Banksy channels the hatred that can spring forth from nationalism. We as the viewer find ourselves exploring a sense of futility and of frustration as the character stands isolated and alone. Angry and abusive. Separated by the glass and class system he tries so vehemently to break down.
Nationalism, far from being a form of comfort here, can be seen to be displayed by Banksy as pointless and futile.
People Who Enjoy Waving Flags Don’t Deserve To Have One
The second work that we examine is the earlier piece, from 2003, “People Who Enjoy Waving Flags Don’t Deserve To Have One” which further explores nationalism in Banksy’s world.
“People Who Enjoy Waving Flags Don’t Deserve To Have One” appeared as a series of works, rumoured to consist of three St. George’s Crosses, produced in 2003. The concept also saw the release of a Union Jack flag too. The work is an English flag (or Union Jack in other editions) with the slogan “People Who Enjoy Waving Flags Don’t Deserve To Have One” spray painted directly onto the flag. Out of the three in the series, only one is tagged which is currently for sale at Andipa.
The quote is a reference to being blinded by obsession and, in this case, Banksy makes reference to overzealous patriotic types who are blinded by their own nationalism. This love of government or country causes division and stokes up hatred at some level. What’s more, the use of the St. George’s flag recalls the rise of the far-right National Front party that rose in popularity in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.
In this work nationalism is starkly and even crudely presented. The brutalist slogan overlaid onto a cheap flag that is both humorous and shocking. Beneath the simple expression lies a great depth that makes us question nationalism and the effects it has on our society.
In essence, a flag ought to be waved and ought to exist to remind us as a society of our shared values and sacrifices. It should never be displayed to the detriment of others and to their exclusion. However, the insular nature of nationalism causes this to occur at the detriment to a cohesive, united and fair society or world.
Discover our selection of Banksy artworks for sale or our Banksy prints for sale. To sell your Banksy or for any other questions, contact Andipa via sales@andipa.com or call +44 (0)20 7581 1244.