ANALYSIS: BANKSY

Banksy has become one of the most iconic graffiti and street artists in contemporary art. Although we do not know who he actually is, Banksy’s works has become iconic and even a household name over the years. His work will use the surroundings of the city of London, where he will then convey a political image, or connote ideas about modern day society. For example in the below image, two men are carrying away a TV through a painted window, Banksy has used the actual window to mirror the one he created, to almost add a sense of realism to it. The piece was created shortly after the London riots last summer, and similar to the riots, Banksy tells the narrative of the looting that took place. His work is normally placed in places where it can get attention, and with its bold lettering and also the use of police (often comical), rats (often representing the public), and televisions (often broken), Banksy’s work documents his views on society and current political affairs. What makes his work that of a genius, and what also interests me the most, is wanting to know how he has managed to create these pieces of art without ever being caught. His work can be seen all over the country, and influences many street artists today to speak out against the current government and society.