Banksy, spraypaint on cardboard, 2003
This contemporary artist, who does everything to keep his identity secret, is an worldwide current messenger. Banksy preaches his universal political, cultural and ethical commitment in a magical way of street communication. His satirical stylistic devices bring us universal themes such as bombs and grenades, guns and tanks, monkeys and humans. His socially engaged street art grabs people by the throat, but at the same time offers power to the people within the political landscape.
‘Smiling Cop’ was made with his quick stencil technique in 2003. As ‘illegal’ street artist, he likes to mock the authorities. With a well-known smiley he contrasts here the grim riot police who use weapons to keep civilians under duress.
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