Banksy: The Man Behind the Wall: Revised and Illustrated Edition

In this fully revised and richly illustrated edition, author and journalist Will Ellsworth-Jones pieces together a complete picture of the life and work of Banksy, perhaps the most iconic, enigmatic, and controversial artist of modern times. For someone who shuns the limelight so completely that he conceals his name, never shows his face, and gives interviews only by email, Banksy is remarkably famous. This fully updated and illustrated story of Banksy’s life and career builds an intriguing picture of his world and unpicks its contradictions.

Whether art or vandalism, anti-establishment or sell-out, Banksy and his work have become a cultural phenomenon, and the question ‘Who is the man behind Banksy?’ is as much about his career as it is about the artist himself. From his beginnings as a Bristol graffiti artist, his artwork is now sold at auction for seven-figure sums and hangs on celebrities’ walls. The appearance of a new Banksy is national news; his documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop was Oscar-nominated, and people queue for hours to see his latest exhibition.

Book Overview

This book charts Banksy’s journey from the graffiti-scrawled streets of Barton Hill, the working-class neighborhood of Bristol, where he and others covered the walls with vibrant pieces while trying to avoid the police, through to some of the most prestigious galleries in the world. His daring acts of guerilla art have forced us to reconsider how we define art. From the artist’s own words to recollections of friends and colleagues, this book also examines the contradictions of Banksy’s life: charting how a privately educated boy from a middle-class area of Bristol reinvented himself as a rogue and an outlaw who would take the art world by storm.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• Insights into Banksy’s early work and influences.
• Analysis of his political commentary through art.
• Beautiful reproductions of some of his most controversial and recognizable works.
• A detailed study of Banksy’s evolution as an artist.
• Reflections from friends and colleagues on his impact.

Why This Book Matters

This book is a truly indispensable guide to understanding the ultimate art rebel whose work remains relevant today. It brings the story of Banksy up to date, providing a comprehensive look at his life and art, tracing his journey from a graffiti artist to an international image maker.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This digital download is compatible with various devices, including eReaders, tablets, and smartphones. Enjoy instant access after purchase.

FAQ

• Is this an instant download? Yes, you will receive immediate access after purchase.
• Is there a physical copy available? No, this is a digital download only.
• What formats are compatible? This book is available in EPUB format.

Explore the life and work of Banksy with this comprehensive guide. Delve into the story of the man behind the wall and understand his impact on contemporary art.