Listen to the article
In the annals of contemporary art, few figures have remained as enigmatic as Banksy. While past video appearances rendered him unidentifiable, the tides might change with an unfolding legal drama.
For decades, the urban landscapes of major cities have been adorned with the enigmatic works of the artist known as Banksy. This elusive figure, who has consistently maintained anonymity, might soon be unmasked due to a legal case being heard at the High Court of Justice in London, as stated by The Times on Saturday, October 7.
The core dispute originates from a collaboration between Andrew Gallagher of Brandalised and the prominent fashion brand, Guess. Within this partnership, artworks attributed to Banksy were incorporated into some of the brand’s products. However, via an Instagram account with 12 million followers, Banksy voiced disapproval of this usage, insinuating a theft on Guess’s part and challenging the legality of replicating the act with the brand’s apparel.
In response, Brandalised’s commercial entity, Full Colour Black, claimed that Banksy’s statements were defamatory, suggesting the firm had illicitly used his artwork by granting image licenses to Guess without the requisite permissions. As a remedy for the alleged damage, the company is seeking compensation amounting to £1.3 million.
Beyond the financial stakes, this case holds the potential to create a seismic shift in the urban art world: unveiling the identity of the legendary Banksy. Thus, a courtroom might achieve what years of speculation failed to: the unmasking of the world’s most elusive artist.