I apologize, but I’ve been sitting on this one for a while, completely contrary to the dynamic ideals that compelled the creation of its subject. I found as a present under my Christmas tree this year (from myself) the must-have coffee table book of the millenium, Wall and Piece, by the infamous (famous? not famous? should be famous?) Banksy. For the uninitiated, Banksy is a big-time graffiti artist hailing from the U.K., whose works you’ve undoubtedly seen, although you may not have placed a (masked face) with a (non-personally-identifiable) name.

Banksy Wall and Piece

You really have to own a copy of this for yourself so that you can take your time, at your leisure, to truly appreciate its greatness. I guess, in Banksy’s world, posting a whole bunch of photos from the book on this here blog wouldn’t be a big deal; nonetheless, out of respect (but no lawful obligation), I don’t think our blogmaster should do that. Maybe one or two, right here [ed: I'm not your monkey. For more see the artist's site linked above]:



Banksy is a political and philosophical idealist, and he expresses himself through graffiti. Not your standard tagging, mind you (although his tag is very recognizable), but through complex graffiti artwork that sends a message not only through its content, but also through its context. He strategically places his graffiti to exploit the hypocrisy he sees in the affairs of the government and the social fabric. I can’t possibly convey to you the messages that he conveys because doing so would be like a wannabe on American Idol trying to do a Stevie Wonder tune — I just don’t have the chops.

But let me share one tidbit from the book: On the back cover, Banksy includes the following quote:

“There’s no way you’re going to get a quote from us to use on your book cover.”

Metropolitan Police Spokesperson

Update: Try this link to see more Banksy art. It’s a little more user friendly.