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Banksy - The Man Behind The Wall
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.
From his beginnings as a Bristol graffiti artist, his artwork is now sold at auction for six-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. Now more National Treasure than edgy outsider, who is Banksy and how did he become what he is today?
In the first attempt to tell the full story of Banksy's life and career, Will Ellsworth-Jones pieces together a 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 Banksy?' is as much about his career as it is 'the man behind the wall'.
'Britain's unlikeliest national treasure' "Independent"" "
'A fascinating portrait that elicits admiration for a man who, despite his increasingly unconvincing efforts to retain some shred of his vandal status, has had an undeniable impact on art' "The Times"
From his beginnings as a Bristol graffiti artist, his artwork is now sold at auction for six-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. Now more National Treasure than edgy outsider, who is Banksy and how did he become what he is today?
In the first attempt to tell the full story of Banksy's life and career, Will Ellsworth-Jones pieces together a 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 Banksy?' is as much about his career as it is 'the man behind the wall'.
'Britain's unlikeliest national treasure' "Independent"" "
'A fascinating portrait that elicits admiration for a man who, despite his increasingly unconvincing efforts to retain some shred of his vandal status, has had an undeniable impact on art' "The Times"
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First published January 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
November 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this thorough, interesting and entertaining look at the world of Banksy. From his beginnings in Bristol, to his early successes on walls, prints and installations and how the art world treats him(not to mention the prices his work sells for these days!). And there’s plenty of pictures to look at too.
March 4, 2015
Disclaimer: this review is not authorized by Will Ellsworth-Jones, his agent, or his publisher (St. Martin’s Press). It is also not authorized by Banksy or Pictures on Walls, and has not been authenticated by Pest Control.
Seems like a lot of legalese to go through just to post a review, doesn’t it? The hoops one must go through to sell the wall Banksy painted for you when you were both up-and-coming street vandals is similarly rife with legal complications. Has it been authenticated by Pest Control? If not, many buyers won’t go near it. Did Banksy want it to be sold? If not Pest Control won’t authenticate it. There are so many complicated issues involved in buying, selling, and showing Banksy’s work. Will Ellsworth-Jones does a marvelous job of outlining these issues. He points out how almost ludicrous it is that Banksy’s ‘outsider art’ is shown at the Tate and brings in tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. Yet the author does so without being at all anti-Banksy.
Banksy (whose identity is a closely guarded secret) started doing graffiti in Bristol in the 1980s. He has since become known as a stencil artist, has started making prints of his work, and makes a fair bit of money. Banksy: The Man Behind the Wall is not, though, an art book. There are a few photos, but they are very few. (For photos of the artwork, look for Wall and Piece.)The book is about Banksy, his rise to fame, and how he straddles the worlds of outsider art and posh art galleries. It’s a delicate balance and many question whether Banksy is, or should be, straddling those two worlds successfully.
Banksy is currently an entire business machine. He has a business (Pictures on Walls), a manager/PR organization/authentication service (Pest Control), he puts on huge exhibits, and he makes a lot of money. What he doesn’t do, though, is make endorsements or design for corporations. Does this make him less of a sell-out, or does that fact that he has a business machine behind him guarantee that he’s a no longer an outsider? Ellsworth-Jones says of Banksy’s team,
”The more I examined this team, not just the team that is ready when he needs help with a big project, but also the more permanent team protecting his reputation, his commercial rights, his prices, the more it became clear that he functions in much the same way as any commercially successful artist would – albeit outside the traditional gallery system. And it is perhaps this fact, the fact that in many ways the outsider is now an insider, rather than any real worry about his identity, that this team – which makes very few mistakes – is so determined to hide.”
Even Banksy himself struggles with this issue. In an interview from Time Out magazine, he said,
“I wouldn’t want to be remembered as the guy who contaminated a perfectly legitimate form of protest art with money and celebrities. I do sometimes question whether I’m part of the solution or part of the problem…There’s obviously nothing wrong with selling your art – only an idiot with a trust fund would tell you otherwise, But it’s confusing to know how far you should take it.”
This selling-out issue gives Ellsworth-Jones plenty of fodder. He could have written an entire diatribe just around this issue. And people have. But he goes beyond that to give a balanced and nuanced portrait of Banksy, his work, and his genre. He certainly demonstrates an appreciation for Banksy’s art. He writes, “the images…make us admire him, make us laugh and make us think, not so much about what the painting means but about the subjects he as taken on.” For Banksy’s work is, indeed, protest art. It’s meaningful yet accessible (and as with poetry, there a great deal of heated discussion in the art world about “accessible” art). Kate Brindley, formerly of the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery, says of his work, it’s “…smart, it’s intentioned. It’s political, it’s humorous. It’s current. It’s site specific. It’s universal. He thinks very carefully about it but there is also a lightness and playfulness which I really enjoy about it.”
These descriptions make me interested in Banksy’s work, but Ellsworth-Jones’ book succeeds in making me interested in the entire field of graffiti/protest art. Well done.
Seems like a lot of legalese to go through just to post a review, doesn’t it? The hoops one must go through to sell the wall Banksy painted for you when you were both up-and-coming street vandals is similarly rife with legal complications. Has it been authenticated by Pest Control? If not, many buyers won’t go near it. Did Banksy want it to be sold? If not Pest Control won’t authenticate it. There are so many complicated issues involved in buying, selling, and showing Banksy’s work. Will Ellsworth-Jones does a marvelous job of outlining these issues. He points out how almost ludicrous it is that Banksy’s ‘outsider art’ is shown at the Tate and brings in tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. Yet the author does so without being at all anti-Banksy.
Banksy (whose identity is a closely guarded secret) started doing graffiti in Bristol in the 1980s. He has since become known as a stencil artist, has started making prints of his work, and makes a fair bit of money. Banksy: The Man Behind the Wall is not, though, an art book. There are a few photos, but they are very few. (For photos of the artwork, look for Wall and Piece.)The book is about Banksy, his rise to fame, and how he straddles the worlds of outsider art and posh art galleries. It’s a delicate balance and many question whether Banksy is, or should be, straddling those two worlds successfully.
Banksy is currently an entire business machine. He has a business (Pictures on Walls), a manager/PR organization/authentication service (Pest Control), he puts on huge exhibits, and he makes a lot of money. What he doesn’t do, though, is make endorsements or design for corporations. Does this make him less of a sell-out, or does that fact that he has a business machine behind him guarantee that he’s a no longer an outsider? Ellsworth-Jones says of Banksy’s team,
”The more I examined this team, not just the team that is ready when he needs help with a big project, but also the more permanent team protecting his reputation, his commercial rights, his prices, the more it became clear that he functions in much the same way as any commercially successful artist would – albeit outside the traditional gallery system. And it is perhaps this fact, the fact that in many ways the outsider is now an insider, rather than any real worry about his identity, that this team – which makes very few mistakes – is so determined to hide.”
Even Banksy himself struggles with this issue. In an interview from Time Out magazine, he said,
“I wouldn’t want to be remembered as the guy who contaminated a perfectly legitimate form of protest art with money and celebrities. I do sometimes question whether I’m part of the solution or part of the problem…There’s obviously nothing wrong with selling your art – only an idiot with a trust fund would tell you otherwise, But it’s confusing to know how far you should take it.”
This selling-out issue gives Ellsworth-Jones plenty of fodder. He could have written an entire diatribe just around this issue. And people have. But he goes beyond that to give a balanced and nuanced portrait of Banksy, his work, and his genre. He certainly demonstrates an appreciation for Banksy’s art. He writes, “the images…make us admire him, make us laugh and make us think, not so much about what the painting means but about the subjects he as taken on.” For Banksy’s work is, indeed, protest art. It’s meaningful yet accessible (and as with poetry, there a great deal of heated discussion in the art world about “accessible” art). Kate Brindley, formerly of the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery, says of his work, it’s “…smart, it’s intentioned. It’s political, it’s humorous. It’s current. It’s site specific. It’s universal. He thinks very carefully about it but there is also a lightness and playfulness which I really enjoy about it.”
These descriptions make me interested in Banksy’s work, but Ellsworth-Jones’ book succeeds in making me interested in the entire field of graffiti/protest art. Well done.
November 22, 2014
Like a long but well written magazine article. No great insights, but good general knowledge.
May 4, 2022
Interessant om wat meer van Banksy te weten te komen, maar wel een droge opsomming van feiten. Het is me niet gelukt het helemaal uit te lezen, maar heeft wel mijn nieuwsgierigheid gewekt om me meer in deze kunstenaar te verdiepen.
January 7, 2020
Repetitive. 50 pages too long. Maybe it’s just my short attention spa..
December 5, 2021
Benksijs ar saukli "Fuck capitalism!" pamanās nopelnīt miljonus. Malacis kāds.
February 5, 2013
I enjoyed this book though it was a little slow at times as the writer seemed a little bit of an anorak, even detailing his emails to make a point. However it was a good introduction to the world of street art and graffiti artists. The code among artists, infights (Banksy and robbo) and how Banksy has achieved cult status among the impossibly trendy and among the super rich who can afford his art, all the while involved in huge publicity stunts and keeping anonymous at the same time.
I struggled a few times with the pedestrian style of the writing but I was equally fascinated by the various tales of his followers, preserving and capturing his walls. How art dealers are able to circumnavigate his 'pest control' to hold exhibitions of his work. And how team Banksy and managed to protect his anonymity and promote him at the same time. I love the way they certify an authentic Banksy. They use one of his 'Lady di' bank notes and tear it in two, the owner of the print holding one half and Pest Control' owning the other .
I enjoyed hearing about all his work, the detials of the pictures and the exhibitions he has held. Especially the ones linked to political movements and in support of charities etc. Loved his pic of maid lifting a 'Hirst' spotted curtain. Also especially the wall in the west bank. It was also great to revisit Mr Brainwash and Exit By The Gift Shop - thought provoking and mind bending - what he's really trying to say as illusive as the artist himself.
I struggled a few times with the pedestrian style of the writing but I was equally fascinated by the various tales of his followers, preserving and capturing his walls. How art dealers are able to circumnavigate his 'pest control' to hold exhibitions of his work. And how team Banksy and managed to protect his anonymity and promote him at the same time. I love the way they certify an authentic Banksy. They use one of his 'Lady di' bank notes and tear it in two, the owner of the print holding one half and Pest Control' owning the other .
I enjoyed hearing about all his work, the detials of the pictures and the exhibitions he has held. Especially the ones linked to political movements and in support of charities etc. Loved his pic of maid lifting a 'Hirst' spotted curtain. Also especially the wall in the west bank. It was also great to revisit Mr Brainwash and Exit By The Gift Shop - thought provoking and mind bending - what he's really trying to say as illusive as the artist himself.
November 9, 2017
While it is an unauthorised book, meaning not authorized by Banksy, I learned a lot about both Bansky and the graffiti world in general . I have always been fascinated by his work as well as graffiti and urban/street art so I enjoyed the book. Not a fast read but infomative.
December 5, 2021
I enjoyed this, there was a lot I didn’t know about Banksy.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
June 19, 2020
My other half bought me this book almost 3 years ago, but it’s sat among all my other unread books until now. I didn’t really know a huge amount about Banksy to begin with and after finishing this book I can’t say I know a whole lot more.
Despite the subtitle “The Man Behind The Wall” don’t be fooled that there is anything more about his identity in this book than the normal internet rumours which have been circulating for a long time.
The author emphasises that this is a completely unauthorised book, (Banksy doesn’t like to give too much away). In fact there are many people mentioned in the book who were contacted for interviews, they in turn contacted Banksy only to inform the author that unfortunately Banksy wouldn’t give permission for them to speak to anyone writing a book about him. However there are some extracts from interviews with people who knew him way back when but they are very careful not to give anything away!
It’s quite an interesting read and there’s some fascinating stories about his works. I particularly enjoyed the chapter which revolves around people who try to purchase the walls where a new Banksy appears. While wishing to remain anonymous he also has made quite a bit of money from his works, particularly the prints he has done in more recent years! I also found out that he is very reluctant to authenticate any of his older works. He says the reason is that he cannot openly admit to doing pieces which could be considered illegal street art however he is also reluctant to authenticate works he did with the property owners permission. One such example is a barn wall he had permission to paint and another where he asked if he could do a piece on the side of a truck. The owners of both of these pieces have tried to sell them in recent years and despite the fact that the works cannot be considered illegal, Banksy will not authenticate them, meaning art which could be worth thousands if proven to be his work is nothing more than worthless doodles.
I’d definitely recommend this if you have an interest in him but don’t have a lot of background.
Despite the subtitle “The Man Behind The Wall” don’t be fooled that there is anything more about his identity in this book than the normal internet rumours which have been circulating for a long time.
The author emphasises that this is a completely unauthorised book, (Banksy doesn’t like to give too much away). In fact there are many people mentioned in the book who were contacted for interviews, they in turn contacted Banksy only to inform the author that unfortunately Banksy wouldn’t give permission for them to speak to anyone writing a book about him. However there are some extracts from interviews with people who knew him way back when but they are very careful not to give anything away!
It’s quite an interesting read and there’s some fascinating stories about his works. I particularly enjoyed the chapter which revolves around people who try to purchase the walls where a new Banksy appears. While wishing to remain anonymous he also has made quite a bit of money from his works, particularly the prints he has done in more recent years! I also found out that he is very reluctant to authenticate any of his older works. He says the reason is that he cannot openly admit to doing pieces which could be considered illegal street art however he is also reluctant to authenticate works he did with the property owners permission. One such example is a barn wall he had permission to paint and another where he asked if he could do a piece on the side of a truck. The owners of both of these pieces have tried to sell them in recent years and despite the fact that the works cannot be considered illegal, Banksy will not authenticate them, meaning art which could be worth thousands if proven to be his work is nothing more than worthless doodles.
I’d definitely recommend this if you have an interest in him but don’t have a lot of background.
March 4, 2013
Banksy The Man Behind The Wall
Written by Will Ellsworth-Jones
Published by St Martin's Press New York
Official Release date February 12th 2013
I received this copy in a goodreads (firstreads) giveaway.
I went into this book knowing nothing about Banksy or graffiti for that matter.
When I started reading the book I decided not to look at any of Banksy's work until I was done. I read a review on Goodreads that said it would have been maybe a better reading experience if the author had included some photos of Banksy's work and I have to agree. After I finished the book and looked at his work online I think it would have been a welcome addition.The bulk of the book is the author telling us about where Banksy's work can be found and where it was and how much it goes for.At one point the author goes on a hunt for Banksy's work all over London and he talks about each stop and tells us whether or not the work is still there. It became a bit tedious after a while. I have to confess by page 60 I did not like Banksy at all and I was a bored. I feel like he takes himself so seriously I mean it's just graffiti no one is curing cancer! There were interesting parts in the book Banksy has a couple feuds with other graffiti writers and there is a falling out of sorts with a long time friend and member of his team. However nothing is really explored in depth. I suppose that is the central issue. Banksy wants to remain anonymous and in so doing takes away the ability to get anything concrete or in depth about him. On the other hand if he didn't remain anonymous would anyone care that much about what he does? This book did nothing to peak my interest in Banksy and by the 11th chapter I was almost ready to check out but I don't regret reading it.
Until Next Time
http://booksandbackstreetboys.blogspo...
Written by Will Ellsworth-Jones
Published by St Martin's Press New York
Official Release date February 12th 2013
I received this copy in a goodreads (firstreads) giveaway.
I went into this book knowing nothing about Banksy or graffiti for that matter.
When I started reading the book I decided not to look at any of Banksy's work until I was done. I read a review on Goodreads that said it would have been maybe a better reading experience if the author had included some photos of Banksy's work and I have to agree. After I finished the book and looked at his work online I think it would have been a welcome addition.The bulk of the book is the author telling us about where Banksy's work can be found and where it was and how much it goes for.At one point the author goes on a hunt for Banksy's work all over London and he talks about each stop and tells us whether or not the work is still there. It became a bit tedious after a while. I have to confess by page 60 I did not like Banksy at all and I was a bored. I feel like he takes himself so seriously I mean it's just graffiti no one is curing cancer! There were interesting parts in the book Banksy has a couple feuds with other graffiti writers and there is a falling out of sorts with a long time friend and member of his team. However nothing is really explored in depth. I suppose that is the central issue. Banksy wants to remain anonymous and in so doing takes away the ability to get anything concrete or in depth about him. On the other hand if he didn't remain anonymous would anyone care that much about what he does? This book did nothing to peak my interest in Banksy and by the 11th chapter I was almost ready to check out but I don't regret reading it.
Until Next Time
http://booksandbackstreetboys.blogspo...
November 15, 2021
This is very much a book about Banksy the person, not Banksy's art, though, of course, the two are inextricable. Readers shouldn't expect an art-forward coffee table book with commentary. Rather, this is a thorough and well-researched examination of the artist, his career, and what the choices he's made say about him and how he fits into the art world and society.
The overall tone is quite measured. The author mostly maintains a remove, neither wholly venerating or condemning Banksy, but also not afraid to let his own words and actions occasionally show him in an unflattering light. It doesn't seem to advance any particular judgment about Banksy, letting the reader draw that conclusion themselves. For my part, I came away with respect for Banksy's talent and many of the points he's made, while also thinking I'd find him personally tiresome if I were ever trapped next to him at a dinner party.
Though the focus is not Banksy's art, the book includes a generous amount of images, including several full-page. Anyone interested in Banksy, street art, or contemporary art will find this a worthwhile read.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
The overall tone is quite measured. The author mostly maintains a remove, neither wholly venerating or condemning Banksy, but also not afraid to let his own words and actions occasionally show him in an unflattering light. It doesn't seem to advance any particular judgment about Banksy, letting the reader draw that conclusion themselves. For my part, I came away with respect for Banksy's talent and many of the points he's made, while also thinking I'd find him personally tiresome if I were ever trapped next to him at a dinner party.
Though the focus is not Banksy's art, the book includes a generous amount of images, including several full-page. Anyone interested in Banksy, street art, or contemporary art will find this a worthwhile read.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
December 27, 2021
My thanks to Quarto Publishing Group White Lion for a temporary digital review copy via NetGalley of ‘Banksy: The Man behind the Wall: Revised and Illustrated Edition’ by Will Ellsworth-Jones in exchange for an honest review. This new edition was released in October 2021.
It is well known that Banksy chooses to keep his identity secret and Ellsworth-Jones states on his opening page that “this book does not attempt to unmask him”. I was pleased that the author respected the artist’s wish for privacy.
Rather it focuses upon Banksy’s career from his beginnings as a Bristol graffiti artist in the 1990s to his current status as a world celebrated artist whose works are sold at auction for seven-figure sums. The text is accompanied by plenty of illustrations.
Before reading this I didn’t have much knowledge about Banksy and I found it a fascinating account both about Banksy, other street artists, and the changing perception of graffiti and street art.
I was especially struck by the humour inherent in his art and its subversive nature.
It is well known that Banksy chooses to keep his identity secret and Ellsworth-Jones states on his opening page that “this book does not attempt to unmask him”. I was pleased that the author respected the artist’s wish for privacy.
Rather it focuses upon Banksy’s career from his beginnings as a Bristol graffiti artist in the 1990s to his current status as a world celebrated artist whose works are sold at auction for seven-figure sums. The text is accompanied by plenty of illustrations.
Before reading this I didn’t have much knowledge about Banksy and I found it a fascinating account both about Banksy, other street artists, and the changing perception of graffiti and street art.
I was especially struck by the humour inherent in his art and its subversive nature.
May 5, 2014
Decently researched history of Banksy's rise from the streets into mainstream art. Having lived away the UK for so many decades, I did not know an awful lot about Banksy, so this book was a very enjoyable read for me. My impression of the book's author is that he started out attempting to be unbiased, but became an enthusiastic fan. And it doesn't hurt the book at all. The background is very well researched and where there is room for doubt, he mentions it. What I liked most about the book is that as the author documents Banksy's rise to fame, I was also given a glimpse at how the mainstream art scene works. More importantly, the book paints a fascinating portrait of someone who still retains his anonymity.
August 12, 2018
An rather interesting and easy read. This unofficial account attempts to shed some light on Banksy and the motivation behind his continued anynomity. The author writes almost like a fly on the wall documenting Banksy's transformation from street artist who believes that art should be free for the masses and used for political and social commentary often with a humorous twist, to a more mainstream journey where the art work is produced for sale online and for exhibitions in different spaces. Many questions are posed and some are answered but others are left open and to interpretation. Is graffiti art? Is Banksy a sell-out? Worth the read if interested in art generally and street art and Banksy more specifically.
August 22, 2018
Good stuff this. Loved learning urban cultural revolutionary stuff. Hey, wh0 knew? OK, I did as the mother of a son who has been practicing this art form in Australia for 10 years. Think he may have grown out of it but not without recognition. All publicity for Banksy has been video hoopla but to read it is to understand it in timeline context. And that's key. TIMING. Put up something controversial at the right moment and BOOM. Next phenomenon: Understanding BOOM.
September 14, 2022
an interesting look into the world of banksy. refreshing ending as I read about the author observing a banksy on a bench, as I too, was reading on a bench as multiple subway trains blew past. this book is a
deep dive into what is the phenomenon of banksy and the circus of the art world. a must read analysis
for those who are keen on learning more.
deep dive into what is the phenomenon of banksy and the circus of the art world. a must read analysis
for those who are keen on learning more.
October 7, 2012
Interesting book about Banksy and the street art movement, and Banksy's impact on the art market in general. Although it read as one long newspaper article, as a Banksy-phile I found it very interesting.
December 5, 2024
For an unofficial biography of the famed graffiti artist, this covers everything that any fan would need to know in an easy to read and concise format (and yes, there are lots of photos). Perfect for a holiday read or a long train journey.
October 15, 2017
This book is about legendary street artist Banksy. Author Will Ellsworth-Jones is a journalist who is good at investigative journalism. The book is no exception as it presents the figure Banksy in detail. The book is just like other reviewer mentioned, it read like a long magazine article with chapters. In my own opinion, the writing is very plain, while very informative. Readers who are curious about urban art would find it interesting. Nonetheless, the contents might not keep readers hooked throughout the whole book.
Will put emphasis that this book is not endorsed by Banksy himself. It’s an unofficial description of the mysterious figure. Will devoted lots of efforts to dig everything up and inspect them carefully. Readers would see there are many inconsistency surrounding Banksy. At the end of the book, we get an overview understanding of Banksy.
Banksy is a graffiti artist from Bristol, UK. He is world-known nowadays since his sudden ascension to the top of art world. Everything about him remains secret. No one knows his real identity except his close circle. People who know him have common understanding that it’s unethical to uncover his true identity. Interestingly, though many people have tried to unmask Banksy, he still enjoys anonymity to this day.
Until fairly recently (2000s), graffiti is not considered ‘art’ by ‘art world’. The art world is known for the playground for the rich on top of the pyramid. The people with high social status even despise those dirty street paintings. However, there is a art movement led by Banksy that turned things upside down. Banksy use avant-garde and controversial behavior to catch people’s imagination. For example, he broke into Metropolitan Museum, Louvre Museum, London Museum and placed his works there. He also staged several eye-catching events that earned him much publicity. Within a short period of time, Banksy becomes trendy and edgy. He has successfully summoned his devoted followers.
Banksy’s works are cynical but thought-provoking at the same time. There are videos clips of his best work on Youtube. Make sure you check it out! Gradually, Banksy enjoys fame and wealth. His works are now bid by Sotheby’s and Christie’s. It seems a little ironic that what he didn’t like (those wealthy people) is what contributes to his success. Well, not everything is perfect, isn’t it?
This book presents readers the story of Banksy up to 2012. Author to certain extent introduces us basics of urban art. I learn a little more about how art world works as well. I will recommend the book to anyone interested in art or culture of young generation. Overall, an interesting read!
Will put emphasis that this book is not endorsed by Banksy himself. It’s an unofficial description of the mysterious figure. Will devoted lots of efforts to dig everything up and inspect them carefully. Readers would see there are many inconsistency surrounding Banksy. At the end of the book, we get an overview understanding of Banksy.
Banksy is a graffiti artist from Bristol, UK. He is world-known nowadays since his sudden ascension to the top of art world. Everything about him remains secret. No one knows his real identity except his close circle. People who know him have common understanding that it’s unethical to uncover his true identity. Interestingly, though many people have tried to unmask Banksy, he still enjoys anonymity to this day.
Until fairly recently (2000s), graffiti is not considered ‘art’ by ‘art world’. The art world is known for the playground for the rich on top of the pyramid. The people with high social status even despise those dirty street paintings. However, there is a art movement led by Banksy that turned things upside down. Banksy use avant-garde and controversial behavior to catch people’s imagination. For example, he broke into Metropolitan Museum, Louvre Museum, London Museum and placed his works there. He also staged several eye-catching events that earned him much publicity. Within a short period of time, Banksy becomes trendy and edgy. He has successfully summoned his devoted followers.
Banksy’s works are cynical but thought-provoking at the same time. There are videos clips of his best work on Youtube. Make sure you check it out! Gradually, Banksy enjoys fame and wealth. His works are now bid by Sotheby’s and Christie’s. It seems a little ironic that what he didn’t like (those wealthy people) is what contributes to his success. Well, not everything is perfect, isn’t it?
This book presents readers the story of Banksy up to 2012. Author to certain extent introduces us basics of urban art. I learn a little more about how art world works as well. I will recommend the book to anyone interested in art or culture of young generation. Overall, an interesting read!
June 30, 2024
Best unauthorised biography I've ever read because its unauthorised and there are no photographs of the subject and as the subject is unidentified the author can't really give much of a bio apart from exploring his art - which stands for itself. Clever!
Great exploration of the context of street art - in the street or in galleries.
Review published in Townsville's Artgaze Magazine 2012
‘I can’t believe you morons actually buy this shit.’ – Banksy.
A bit of a misleading book title; what made you think you were going to meet the real Banksy, see what he looks like, read about his childhood? This book is not shelved in the biography section, and yet it is the most intelligent unauthorised biography I have read.
Arguably the most recognisable name in graffiti, Banksy appears to have grown up rough in Bristol and early on chose the anonymity for which he is known (or not known). It’s an ironic ploy that has worked for and against him ever since.
Ellsworth-Jones asked, ‘how important is Banksy in the whole urban art world?’ and discovered that Banksy ‘kick-started the market. He’s a household name. Everyone’s grandma knows Banksy.’
This book reveals that everyone’s grandma actually knows his art. If you disregard the mystery surrounding him; the interviews in shadow, the disguised voice, the loyalty and closed-shop of his team Pest Control, and the fact that nobody’s really certain who Banksy is, what you have left is the art. The pictures on walls; the stencils, the wry social comment – it all works well with an artist not desperate for his fifteen minutes. Without a preconceived perception of the artist as a man, the art can speak for itself.
I found myself relating to the author while reading. He’s not involved in the art world except for having an artistic appreciation for location-based art. He didn’t meet Banksy, and only owns a knock-off stencil image despite waiting patiently online while others queued overnight. Whatever your knowledge of or interest in Banksy being labelled a street artist, a vandal, a national treasure or a sell-out, you’ll find this the best biography of Banksy you’re going to get to read unless his mother writes an exposé of his early years. Does he even have a mother? Yes, there’s a little about her and a revealing incident from Banksy’s pre-teen years, but no happy family photographs. There are few photographs of any of the pieces referred to in the book, but it’s easy enough to go online to find them. Or go on a cross-country trek as the author did using a guide book to find the Banksy image in its natural habitat.
Great exploration of the context of street art - in the street or in galleries.
Review published in Townsville's Artgaze Magazine 2012
‘I can’t believe you morons actually buy this shit.’ – Banksy.
A bit of a misleading book title; what made you think you were going to meet the real Banksy, see what he looks like, read about his childhood? This book is not shelved in the biography section, and yet it is the most intelligent unauthorised biography I have read.
Arguably the most recognisable name in graffiti, Banksy appears to have grown up rough in Bristol and early on chose the anonymity for which he is known (or not known). It’s an ironic ploy that has worked for and against him ever since.
Ellsworth-Jones asked, ‘how important is Banksy in the whole urban art world?’ and discovered that Banksy ‘kick-started the market. He’s a household name. Everyone’s grandma knows Banksy.’
This book reveals that everyone’s grandma actually knows his art. If you disregard the mystery surrounding him; the interviews in shadow, the disguised voice, the loyalty and closed-shop of his team Pest Control, and the fact that nobody’s really certain who Banksy is, what you have left is the art. The pictures on walls; the stencils, the wry social comment – it all works well with an artist not desperate for his fifteen minutes. Without a preconceived perception of the artist as a man, the art can speak for itself.
I found myself relating to the author while reading. He’s not involved in the art world except for having an artistic appreciation for location-based art. He didn’t meet Banksy, and only owns a knock-off stencil image despite waiting patiently online while others queued overnight. Whatever your knowledge of or interest in Banksy being labelled a street artist, a vandal, a national treasure or a sell-out, you’ll find this the best biography of Banksy you’re going to get to read unless his mother writes an exposé of his early years. Does he even have a mother? Yes, there’s a little about her and a revealing incident from Banksy’s pre-teen years, but no happy family photographs. There are few photographs of any of the pieces referred to in the book, but it’s easy enough to go online to find them. Or go on a cross-country trek as the author did using a guide book to find the Banksy image in its natural habitat.
December 1, 2022
Autor już na początku daje dobry asumpt do wyjścia w kierunku udanej lektury zaznaczając, iż nie będzie gonił za tożsamością swojego bohatera jako taką i próbował odkrywać kim naprawdę jest. Wszak kiedy bohater tej książki został uznany za jednego ze stu najbardziej wpływowych ludzi na świecie przesłał on do magazynu Time swoje zdjęcie w papierowej torbie na głowie. Chyba ta tajemniczość i działania które podejmuje w trybie swojej sztuki sprawiają że jest tak dobrze odbierany.
Teksty jak te które odnoszą się do zorganizowanej przez niego wystawy w muzeum w Bristolu: "pierwszy raz pieniądze podatników są wykorzystywane do rozwieszania moich obrazów, a nie do ich zdrapywania" świadczą nie tylko o jego błyskotliwości i inteligencji, ale także o dużej dozie dystansu do siebie, o czym nawiasem mówiąc gadają wszyscy, którzy się z nim zetknęli.
Print zatytułowany Morons, który przedstawia aukcję najlepiej podsumował sam artysta, najpierw na obrazie umieszczając slogan "I can't believe you morons actually buy this shit" a następnie komentując go słowami: "Banksy robi chujowy obrazek, o tym jak ludzie płacą kupę kasy za chujowe obrazki i dostaje za ten chujowy obrazek kupę kasy" - ironia level master.
Teksty jak te które odnoszą się do zorganizowanej przez niego wystawy w muzeum w Bristolu: "pierwszy raz pieniądze podatników są wykorzystywane do rozwieszania moich obrazów, a nie do ich zdrapywania" świadczą nie tylko o jego błyskotliwości i inteligencji, ale także o dużej dozie dystansu do siebie, o czym nawiasem mówiąc gadają wszyscy, którzy się z nim zetknęli.
Print zatytułowany Morons, który przedstawia aukcję najlepiej podsumował sam artysta, najpierw na obrazie umieszczając slogan "I can't believe you morons actually buy this shit" a następnie komentując go słowami: "Banksy robi chujowy obrazek, o tym jak ludzie płacą kupę kasy za chujowe obrazki i dostaje za ten chujowy obrazek kupę kasy" - ironia level master.
April 14, 2016
Embarking upon college dorm life many years ago as a green, socially awkward, and very insecure anonymous freshman I was hellbent on not replicating the social ostracism and timidity that had marked my high school years.
This was a time to remake myself. All was a clean slate; I was free of baggage and past associations. I was in a new town, among strangers. The image I created would be mine. I would control it.
The task at hand was to make a splash, a big one, and quickly, before doubt and lack of confidence and the ordinariness and banality of slow osmosis into the social fabric branded me as once again anonymous, or worse, as someone to be mocked.
So, I came up with a plan. I would introduce myself as someone anonymous. A mystery man. Someone who breathed and walked in your midst, yet who was unknown.
On the first day I moved in, I plastered my calling card -- sight unseen -- on doors all over the 12th-floor dorm. Sometimes there was only text; sometimes there was text with a crudely drawn masked figure. The cards, pasted or taped on the doors, simply said: "The Phantom was Here."
In short order, the dormies were abuzz about the Phantom. Who was he? What was his game?
Not long thereafter, during a well-timed spell, it came out that I was the perpetrator. I had established a mystique, a rebellious air, and I made fast friends, and some fast enemies, but I was a force to be reckoned with, and respected, and nobody but nobody treated me in that dorm the way kids had treated me in high school.
From here, my story and Banksy's diverge, but I mention it by way of making a point. The Bristol-London-cosmopolitan street artist, Banksy, of course, made his splash through-hit-and run graffiti imagery, cultivating an anonymous Robin Hood persona that he still maintains. That he had/has talent is not really the point. The point was how to make a mark in a world where so many other talented artists toil forever in obscurity, people with names and faces who are nonetheless anonymous. Conversely, Banksy is anonymous and has no face, but he and his art are famous. Bansky created a mystique, via anonymity, via street-cred rebellion, and via a playful accessible art form that plebes and patricians alike could like. Whether by accident or design, or both, Banksy caught the zeitgeist, and the issues surrounding his rise, his art, his methods, his engagement with the public and art circles and the social order and commerce are central and intriguing ones for our time, or any time where art is still considered relevant.
This "unauthorised" book by Will-Ellsworth Jones seems to me very much in the spirit of Banksy. It is breezy and cheeky, and though it is sometimes messy, inconsistent, and tabloid-ish, it is in its best moments incredibly thoughtful and extremely informative. Without having any access to Banksy or his inner crew (particularly those in his Pest Contol organization charged with authenticating his works), the author has done a marvelous end run and the homework gets at least an A-. There's hardly an issue about the nature of contemporary art and art marketing that is not discussed, and, as much as the author can under the circumstances, he provides a fair, respectful, critical and admiring portrait of an artist straddling a line in an interesting world of his own creation.
As Ellsworth-Jones writes: "....[Banksy] appears to have reached the awkward point where he wants to remain somehow part of that [street] subculture while his very success makes it almost impossible for him to do so."
For Banksy, while raising the profile of street art to a new level has entered that inevitable realm that comes with success: the classic push me/pull you of being authentic and being a sell out, of selling art to the very masters of commerce that you despise. One example of the Banksy dilemma is stated by one wag who has branded him a "champagne socialist." Ellsworth-Jones, to his credit, has balanced such characterizations, noting that Banksy's charitable efforts and various limits on what he chooses to sell, and to whom, has made him far less wealthy than he might otherwise be. Banksy himself notes that it's no crime to want to eat from your work labors, but at the same time he has not cultivated ostentation or gratuitous wealth.
On the whole, this book is a very astute examination of the Bansky phenomenon. The book is stronger toward the end than at the beginning, so stick with it. Its final chapter on elite/obscure versus accessible/popular art, and where Banksy fits into that debate, is well pondered.
The chapter about the circumstances of the making of Banky's controversial documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop is a must-read companion piece to that film, since it lays out the perplexing issues raised by the film.
The author clearly understands the genius of Banksy, the things about his place in the art world that mark him quite apart from the works themselves. The way Banksy and his team have vertically integrated street art into the world of "high art," his bypassing of traditional distribution channels, and his use of the internet to create buzz are just part of this ingenuity. Along the way we are treated to other interesting dilemmas, such as the challenges of authenticating works that in some cases can't easily be authenticated and the ever-iffy notion of who actually "owns" art.
This is partly a biography and partly an examination of the contemporary art world, and how Bansky introduced a new avenue into that world, and for that the book is deeply fascinating.
If you can overlook the book's faults, fans of art and of Banksy will find it rewarding.
(I had written tons of notes about the issues raised in this book, but, like a Bansky work of street art, I'm going to let those fade...like a phantom.)
(KevinR@Ky 2016)
October 2, 2025
I don;t know much about art, but I know who Banksy is, and I found his story (although he is very definitely NOT unmasked in this book) to be fascinating.
Banksy began as graffiti artist (one step up from a tagger), an outsider artist bucking the system ... which ironically ended up glorifying him, and making his work extremely sought after and expensive. Personally I think he is very clever, and I admire what he has tried to do politically, with his Walled Off Hotel in Jerusalem (currently - unsurprisingly - closed!), and his clever puns and witty imagery. Despite being a millionaire (presumably) several times over, he still contributes a lot to worthy causes and has managed to remain an enigma for the majority of this century.
Hats off to the guy, I hope he keeps on keeping on!
Banksy began as graffiti artist (one step up from a tagger), an outsider artist bucking the system ... which ironically ended up glorifying him, and making his work extremely sought after and expensive. Personally I think he is very clever, and I admire what he has tried to do politically, with his Walled Off Hotel in Jerusalem (currently - unsurprisingly - closed!), and his clever puns and witty imagery. Despite being a millionaire (presumably) several times over, he still contributes a lot to worthy causes and has managed to remain an enigma for the majority of this century.
Hats off to the guy, I hope he keeps on keeping on!
October 17, 2018
While I was enlightened into the beginnings of Banksy and street art etc, I have to admit that I read only 3 quarters of the book. By that time I had gleaned most of what I wanted to know , but the latter half of the book got a bit repetitive and I feel it could have been a more succinct book. What I did enjoy was that I was reading about Banksy just as the stunt at Sotheby’s was pulled off, which was quite amusing.
August 13, 2023
Obviously like most people I was aware of Banksy and his work. What I didn't know was the background, the graffiti art movement and artists, how he moved from small acorns to become the most famous living artist today. Fascinating read for someone like me who's lack of knowledge was a big factor in enjoying this book. My only criticism and it is only a small one, is it would have been useful having a picture of each work discussed although having Google to hand was very useful.
December 30, 2025
Teoretycznie jest to dobra książka. Można dowiedzieć się z niej wielu ciekawych rzeczy o Banksym, jednak dla mnie była napisana zbyt chaotycznie.
Dużo w niej skakania po datach i zasypywania czytelnika kwotami za jakie niektóre prace artysty zostały sprzedane.
Przez takie przeskoki, niektóre rzeczy były wspominane kilkukrotnie, co było zbędne.
Gdyby była lepiej skonstruowana i uporządkowana, mogło by być to 5/5.
Dużo w niej skakania po datach i zasypywania czytelnika kwotami za jakie niektóre prace artysty zostały sprzedane.
Przez takie przeskoki, niektóre rzeczy były wspominane kilkukrotnie, co było zbędne.
Gdyby była lepiej skonstruowana i uporządkowana, mogło by być to 5/5.
September 13, 2017
decent read in to the life of the elusive artist know as Banksy. it's worth noting that this book is not authorised by the man himself but is a well written insight to the enigma.
it's a very good read for anyone who's keen to learn about the Bristol artist so much so I have found myself looking online at some of his alleged pieces, am even thinking about buying a print
it's a very good read for anyone who's keen to learn about the Bristol artist so much so I have found myself looking online at some of his alleged pieces, am even thinking about buying a print
November 9, 2023
Book that researches Banksy phenomena. Not in a strict chronological way - it makes it even less biographic. Is Banksy an artist or an impostor, a prophet or a provocateur, conscience or shame, loner or crew leader? Does he exist at all? And what about modern art, art in general and commerce. Anyway. I can’t believe you morons actually read this sh*t.
October 11, 2024
What the author said about Blek le Rat really pissed me off. The MBW chapter was particularly interesting. Other artists briefly mentioned include 3D, 10Foot, Ai Weiwei, King Robbo [TR] (gone but not forgotten, R.I.P.), Inkie [BHBC], Buff Monster, Pure Evil, Faile, OBEY, Invader, KAWS, W.E.T Panit, OLEK, TOX, Andy Warhol, John Nation [BHBC], & Seen.
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