In a recent exclusive interview with our team, Banksy, the enigmatic and engaged street artist, shared captivating reflections on his artistic journey, his motivations and his social commitment. With his distinctive style and subversive approach, Banksy has taken the world of urban art by storm, provoking thought and sparking debate on crucial issues such as social justice, the environment and politics. During this interview, he revealed behind the scenes of some of his most famous works and offered insight into his unique creative process.
“The painters take their revenge by taking us by surprise.” - Banksy
Interviewer (I): Hello Banksy, thank you for accepting this interview.
Banksy (B): Hello, it's a pleasure to be here.
I: Let's start with something simple. How would you define your art?
B: I would say that my art is a mixture of satire, protest and provocation. I seek to provoke thought and challenge social norms through my works. My style is recognizable by its use of stencils and its distinctive aesthetic, but I am constantly evolving and exploring new mediums and techniques.
I: Your works are often politically charged. What pushes you to tackle such sensitive subjects?
B: I firmly believe that art has the power to change mentalities and provoke debate. By addressing political and social issues, I seek to give a voice to the voiceless and raise important issues worth discussing. My art is a form of activism, a way of challenging the established order and making visible what is often ignored or marginalized.
I: You are known for your anonymity. Why did you choose to stay in the shadows?
B: My anonymity allows me to focus on my work without being distracted by fame or media attention. I want my works to speak for themselves, regardless of who I am as a person. Additionally, by remaining anonymous, I can avoid the constraints and pressures that could come with notoriety, which allows me to remain true to my artistic vision.
I: You recently created a new work in London, bringing a felled tree back to life. Can you tell us more about this?
B: This work, entitled "Rebirth", is a reflection on the destruction of the environment and the possibility of renewal. By bringing a felled tree back to life, I hope to raise awareness of the urgency of protecting our planet and preserving its natural beauty. I believe art has the power to spark empathy and inspire change, and that's what I try to accomplish with every work I create.
I: What are your future plans?
B: I plan to continue exploring new ways to use art as a means of social and political change. I'm always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of artistic expression and make audiences think. I am currently working on several projects, but I prefer to keep the mystery and surprise until they are ready to be revealed.
I: Thank you very much for this interview, Banksy. It was really fascinating to learn more about you and your work.
B: Thank you.