Banksy’s work still pulls massive attention worldwide — especially since new claims about his identity have been circulating. In this rare BBC interview, he talks openly about his process, his views on graffiti, and how he keeps distance from the traditional art world. Does it offer a real clue to who he is?
Watch the full interview: BANKSY – The Lost Interview: A Glimpse into Banksy’s Artistic World
🌿 1. Inside “Turf War” (2003)
A big part of the interview focuses on Turf War, Banksy’s 2003 London exhibition built around anti-establishment ideas. The show featured modified police vehicles covered in graffiti, live animals painted with police-style patterns, and the now-famous twist on the Winston Churchill portrait.
🛒 2. The name moment
At one point, interviewer Nigel Wrench asks about using Banksy’s real name. Banksy replies: “Robbie.” It’s only a small detail, but it has fueled years of speculation, with people linking it to names like Robert Del Naja (Massive Attack) or Robin Gunningham.
🐀 3. Banksy on graffiti
Banksy is blunt about graffiti: if it’s illegal, it’s vandalism and that’s part of what gives it its edge. He describes the city as a space where walls are constantly being painted over, turning street art into an ongoing public conversation. His own approach is fast, direct, and designed to hit hard in the moment.
🩺 4. Banksy vs. the art establishment
He also makes it clear he’s not chasing the gallery world. In the interview, he shows little interest in the “Brit Art” scene and avoids selling through gatekeepers like Charles Saatchi. For him, the point is making work that connects with ordinary people — not earning approval from the art elite.
🖼️ 5. The market irony
Even while keeping his distance from the art market, Banksy’s canvases sell for huge sums. His reaction comes off as a mix of disbelief and indifference — almost like the money has little to do with what he intended the work to be.
More classics by Banksy:
👮 7. Kissing Coppers — By Banksy in Brighton
Love is in the air for these two British policemen on a wall in Brighton. This iconic stencil is one of his most famous works and reminds us all to be a little kinder. It is a perfect example of his quick and impactful style that makes the whole world smile!
⛵ 8. We’re All In The Same Boat — By Banksy in Lowestoft
These kids are sailing through life in a makeshift boat on a city wall. Even when things look a bit flooded they are sticking together for the big journey. It is a brave and beautiful scene that makes everyone stop and think about our shared future!
🦓 9. Zebra Stripes — By Banksy in Timbuktu
This woman is doing a very thorough job of washing those zebra stripes right off! It is a magical and striking image from his travels to Mali. Who knew stripes were just dirty laundry waiting to be cleaned by a pro!
🚫 10. Follow Your Dreams – Cancelled — By Banksy in Boston
A worker is busy stamping out everyone’s favorite dream with a giant red Cancelled sign. It is a bit of a cheeky reality check for anyone walking down the street in Boston. Don’t worry because we can always just start a new dream tomorrow morning!
💐 11. Flower Thrower — By Banksy in Bethlehem
Instead of a rock this man is launching a beautiful bouquet of flowers spread some peace. It is one of the most powerful images of how art can change the world. Sometimes a bunch of flowers is exactly what we need for a big breakthrough!
🏗️ 12. The Claw — By Banksy in Norfolk
You better watch your head while sitting on this bench or the giant arcade claw might pick you up! This funny installation turns a normal park bench into a high stakes game. I hope the claw has good aim so nobody loses their seat while waiting!
🐒 13. Devolved Parliament — By Banksy in London
The House of Commons is looking a bit wilder than usual today with all these chimpanzees in charge. This satirical painting is a sharp look at how crazy politics can get in the UK. It seems like the chimps are having a very loud debate today!
🌼 14. Gas Mask Boy — By Banksy in London
This young boy is seeing a world full of colorful flowers through his gas mask visor. It is a beautiful way to show that we can find hope and nature even in the middle of a big city. The reflection in his mask is like a tiny secret garden!
🕊️ 15. Armored Peace Dove — By Banksy in Bethlehem
This little peace dove is not taking any chances and put on a tiny bulletproof vest. It is still carrying its olive branch while being targeted by crosshairs. It is one very brave and stylish bird that knows how to protect itself!
🚲 16. Tourist and Rickshaw — By Banksy in Bristol
A tourist is getting a very fancy ride through the museum in this rickshaw installation. It is a funny poke at how we travel and look at art in museums today. Why walk when you can be pushed through a gallery in style while looking at the sights!
More: Banksy? Who Is The Visionary of Street Art? (25 Photos)
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