Saras Fashion Blog

Graffiti writer Banksy is one of the most intriguing figures in the pop culture sphere today. Simultaneously thriving on and deriding the mass media and modern capitalism, fully admitting this hypocrisy, and going on to become both a successful artist and businessman, Banksy has been able to manipulate and exploit the art scene and the culture surrounding it as well as anyone since Andy Warhol.

When buying Banksy prints, you’re not just buying something cool to hang on your wall, you’re also buying a piece of the most fascinating western art phenomena to come along in decades. Banksy’s work is angry and complacent at the same time, as bemused as it is enraged, and as funny as it is fierce. Like Orwell’s novels, Banksy’s art reaches beyond entertainment, beyond wall decor, and gives us a grim sort of satire.

Perhaps Banksy’s greatest strength is his ability to dance the line between aggressive and trite. Too many artists come across as condescending and insincere when approaching the issues of the day, while Banksy’s work, particularly in his graffiti and in his outstanding Simpsons couch gag, have managed to come across as strong, clear and aggressive statements without ever feeling forced, obvious or smug. What else would you expect of the guy who hung his own work in the Louvre without permission?

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