Banksy’s primary feature has been his anonymity but in a recently resurfaced audio interview with Nigel Wrench released on 21 November as a bonus episode of BBC’s The Banksy Story: The Lost Banksy Interview has Banksy reveal his name. In the interview, Wrench tries to confirm if his name is, in fact, Robert Banks as reported in The Independent to which he responds “its Robbie”.
The name, however, sounds like a clever pun (“Robbie Banks”) which knowing Banksy’s satirical humour raises doubts regarding the truth.
Wrench who is a former BBC reporter claimed that he did in fact get to interview the real Banksy since there have been many phony interviews claiming to be him. When he asked Banksy about being political while so many other famed artists chose to avoid politics, he stated that he did not consider himself to be political but he added that “If you think about your life for longer than a second, then you have to work out that the shoes you wear are made by somebody on a pathetic amount of money and the coffee you drink means somebody, somewhere in the world is getting done over.”
Wrench further states that unlike other artists Banksy does not try to sell his art instead he tells you to “get the free stickers”. Nigel Wrench and James Peak further discuss Banksy’s unabashed nature in the interview where he is almost seen inciting people to commit vandalism as an act of defiance. Banksy believes that vandalism is a quicker way of getting people to look at something and getting your point across.
Who is Banksy?
For the unversed, Banksy is a pseudonymous street and graffiti artist who rose to prominence during the 2000s. He is known for the use of stencils and spray paint in creating art with social commentary and dark humour. His art has resurfaced time and again during times of social and political upheaval throughout the world.
Banksy’s ascent to fame is marked by a distinctive blend of factors that set the artist apart in the contemporary art scene. Firstly, Banksy emerged during a pivotal moment when street art was gaining legitimacy as a powerful form of artistic expression. The artist’s work achieved widespread visibility, capturing the attention of diverse audiences.
Beyond aesthetics, Banksy’s art serves as a vehicle for profound social and political commentary. The artist’s ability to address pressing issues added depth to the visual impact, sparking meaningful conversations and resonating with audiences on a deeper level.
The global reach of Banksy’s work is another key element in the artist’s fame. Murals and installations have appeared in cities around the world, further solidifying Banksy’s international reputation and contributing to the artist’s broad appeal.
Media intrigue surrounding Banksy’s mysterious identity has played a crucial role in shaping the artist’s narrative. News coverage of new pieces and documentaries like “Exit Through the Gift Shop” have intensified public curiosity, elevating Banksy’s status to that of a cultural enigma.
The advent of the internet and social media platforms has played a pivotal role in amplifying Banksy’s influence. The rapid sharing of the artist’s images online has pushed Banksy to global fame, connecting the artist with a diverse and expansive audience.
Despite the artist’s anti-establishment themes, Banksy’s work has found a place in the traditional art market. Auction sales and high-profile exhibitions have added another layer to Banksy’s fame, while simultaneously sparking discussions about the commodification of street art.
Banksy’s significance transcends traditional art realms, influencing cultural discussions on politics, society, and the role of art. The artist’s ability to address contemporary issues has positioned Banksy as a prominent figure in broader cultural conversations.
