Banksy

About this book: Bristol-born Banksy is usually categorized as a street artist, although his art, in content and form, transcends a narrow understanding of this term. This publication primarily deals with Banksy as a contemporary urban artist and his relationship with consumer culture. It examines Banksy not only in light of his illicit work on the street but also in regard to his gallery exhibitions. The study highlights representative works of his art, pieces that demonstrate his versatility, but also stand for different periods of his oeuvre. This book presents the first academic study of Banksy's art in English, with a history and discussion of the terms graffiti, street art, and urban art, along with a rich array of biographical information. It will be of interest to academics and the general public as well.

About this edition: Street artist Banksy and former Young British artist Damien Hirst are two of the most popular representatives of British contemporary art. Situated in a triangle of art, consumerism, and pop culture, their work is among the most well-known. A systematic academic study of their artistic viewpoints and references to consumer culture has long been missing, and Ulrich Blanché is finally closing this gap. He examines Hirst's and Banksy's art against the background of the London art scene since 1980. Blanché points out connections to Duchamp, Warhol, and Koons, and reflects on the role of the observer, the meaning of location, and especially the references between art, consumer culture, and marketing in their pieces. This two-volume edition is the translated and expanded version of the author's dissertational thesis.