Passage V

Urban Legend

On a concrete pillar just a few meters from the Eiffel Tower, painted letters spell out, "This is not a photo opportunity." On the sands of the Bristol Channel, a large, spray-painted, "X" promises buried treasure. On the side of a building in London, a stenciled image depicts a pair of uniformed soldiers painting a vibrant red peace sign. Although nearly no one knows what this artist looks like, there are many who know his work. Blending sharp-tongued social commentary with humor and whimsy British-born artist, Banksy, has made a name for himself by challenging people's perceptions of the relevance of street art.

In the beginning, Banksy's fame originated on the streets of Bristol, England, in the early 1990s. Under the cover of the night sky, Banksy worked quickly and steadily, sometimes painting freehand, sometimes spray-painting elaborately detailed stencils. (67)

Concerned residents argued that Banksy's work was simply graffiti that encouraged vandalism. Others praised it as art done by and for the people and debated for more. England's strict anti-graffiti policy meant that most of Banksy's pieces were destroyed within mere hours of there completion. (71)

By the end of the decade, Banksy had expanded his influence, painting his messages in places well beyond the British border. Seemingly he is everywhere and nowhere at once, Banksy had the full attention of the art world. Museum directors organized Banksy exhibitions, and auctioneers sold actual pieces of buildings that bore Banksy's artistry.

Despite his popularity, Banksy has not given in to the hype. He does not reproduce and sell prints of his images for profit. He also continues to communicate with the public through his street art, which is possible in part because he has managed to keep his identity secret. In Banksy's own words, "Art is not like other culture74because its success is not made by its audience."