Artist Biography

Arguably one of the highest-profile and most popular artists in the world today, Banksy has become synonymous with graffiti culture, modern art and record-breaking auction prices.

Banksy (b. 1974/1975, England) started painting graffiti in Bristol in the early 90´s and developed his signature stencil style during these formative years as part of the city´s renowned underground scene. 

Pioneered by the French artist Blek Le Rat, stenciling presented a practical solution for creating and replicating detailed works in the streets while evading the long arm of the law. In the early 2000’s Banksy relocated to London and under the stewardship of friend and photographer-turned-art dealer Steve Lazarides initiated a series of increasingly elaborate art interventions and publicity stunts which garnered the anonymous artist huge notoriety.

Banksy’s trademark infusion of anti-war, anti-capitalist or anti-establishment slogans with subversive and satirical social and political commentary – taking aim at everything from the surveillance state to the trappings of the fine art world – has undoubtedly had a huge influence on public perceptions of graffiti and street art, and its role in talking truth to power.

In addition to his regular art practice – which includes creating a fully-functional ‘bemusement’ park in Weston-Super-Mare in 2015 and the boutique Walled Off Hotel in occupied Palestine in 2017 – Banksy often creates works for specific charities.

His anonymity – and continued speculation around his identity – ensures a flurry of global media interest around each new addition to his legacy. Secondary market Banksy artworks that appear at auction often surpass all high estimates, fueled by an avid collector following that includes many world-famous actors, athletes, musicians, and fellow artists, such as Damien Hirst, Justin Bieber, Serena Williams and Angelina Jolie, who have all acquired his work.

Ever the prankster, Banksy caused a sensation at Sotheby’s London in 2018 when a framed copy of his work ‘Girl with Balloon’, originally stenciled on Waterloo Bridge in 2002, spontaneously started to shred moments after it was sold for £1.4 million.

‘Devolved Parliament’ – a 2009 oil-on-canvas painting replacing British politicians debating in the House of Commons with chimpanzees – sold for £9.9 million In 2019, becoming his most expensive work to date.

Banksy lives and works in England.

Banksy Artwork Consignment

We offer a bespoke consignment service where clients can sell their limited edition prints and originals to our collector base.

Please contact graeme@monikerprojects.com for further information.