Banksy

I recently watched the documentary, “Exit Through the Gift Shop”. This was street artist Banksy's first film. I had always been amazed with his work after visiting London. He is famous all over the world but being from Bristol he is most famous and well liked over-seas. I never knew much about him until this film though. It brought new insight into just how huge street art is becoming.

Banksy is best known for his anonymity and creative graffiti. He uses stencils as well as free hands his work. The majority of his work is done through stencils these days as it is much easier and quicker. Pansy’s messages usually are anti-war, anti-establishment, or anti-capitalist. His most popular subjects are rats, apes, children, and soldiers.

His work has gotten so popular these days that people are paying thousands for an original piece. Cristina Aguilera bought two prints for $25,000 while a set of Kate Moss paintings sold in London for $50,400. His highest auction record was over $288,000. People have even removed walls from houses just to have a Banksy original.

No matter how popular Banksy gets, he will never reveal his identity. There are very few people who have seen or talked to him face-to-face. There are many theories about what his real name is as well as what he looks like. I believe that it is the anonymity that attracts people to him.

However, the Oscars do not believe in such anonymity. The British artist has been denied permission to appear in disguise at the Academy Awards where he is up for the award of best documentary. The executive director of the Academy Awards, Bruce Davis, believes that if they allow Banksy to do this it would leave room for impostors to crash the ceremony. Banksy will not be able to accept his award or even sit in the audience in disguise. Many believe that Banksy is a breath of fresh air and the decision should be overturned and I agree. He lives through being anonymous. He should have his moment if he does win and I believe he should. His work has caught the attention of everyone. I know I will be looking for it while I’m out in LA next week.