What’s in a name? Everything.
I was thrilled the moment word got out that The Art of Banksy exhibition is coming to Auckland. While I certainly don’t claim to be an expert in the world of street art, I know Banksy.
When I say I know Banksy, I mean I know the name and some of the works associated with that name. How can you not? He is the most famous street artist in the world. His works are ever-present. One of my friends has a framed print of Banksy’s Parking displayed in her apartment. Parking is Banksy’s piece in Los Angeles featuring a young girl swinging from the word “PARK,” formerly written as “PARKING.”
Famous for concealing his identity and his unique stencilling technique, Banksy’s notorious artworks feature dark humour, satirical text, and underlying political and social themes.
If, like me, you have only seen Banksy’s artworks online, then The Art of Banksy provides the fantastic opportunity for you to see his art in person.
Curated by the artists’ former manager Steve Lazarides, this exhibition displays over 80 of Banksy’s original pieces. It includes some of his most notable artworks such as his famous paintings Girl and Balloon, and Laugh Now – a graffiti piece that depicts a monkey with a sign hanging from his neck with the words: “Laugh now, but one day we’ll be in charge.”
Lazarides said to the media, “the show is definitely unauthorised.”
All of the pieces featured in this exhibit are owned by private collectors. Lazarides said collectors would get their art back once the exhibition is over and the chances that these pieces would be displayed together again are extremely slim.
The Art of Banksy is at Aotea Centre from January 5 to February 6. Tickets are on sale for $35 via Ticketmaster.
