In case you missed it the famed street artists Banksy made more headlines than he usually does after one of his most famous paintings, Girl with Red Balloon, sold for a record £860,000 (more than $1.1 million) at a Sotheby’s auction and then began to self-destruct when it was shredded by the frame. Sotheby’s, the auction house, claimed no knowledge of it which makes sense because Banksy himself – via Instagram with the caption “The urge to destroy is also a creative urge” Picasso – took credit for it later that day and you can watch his video here.
Well at the end of August I had a chance to see a great deal of Banksy originals and at no time during my visit to the Laugh Now Exhibit at the Moco Museum did any of the art change form. Located across from the Rijksmuseum in the Museumplein in Central Amsterdam. The exhibit contained more than 90 pieces by Banksy including many of his favourite works from around the world. My visit is now even more meaningful because I heard even though he is only 44 he does not paint anymore. Additionally, I really liked how the museum also incorporated some of his most famous quotes. Take a look at some of the most moving pieces.
Are you a fan of Banksy?
Past Adventures: Victoria Falls
Gaudi’s Casa Batlló
Our Barcelona Bike Tour
Chic Luggage Tags
lucy says
I think Banksy is really talented and I love how many different mediums his art covers.
Sharon says
I had never heard of him until I saw the Christie’s shredding on the news. What a great publicity stunt.
Since then it’s been interesting to see how much of his work has been featured in the media. Some of his things I like and some of them honestly I don’t really understand.
Sarah says
You are so lucky to have seen so much of his work. I will have to make a point to get there.
Great photos of the work.
Sandra says
I admire his creativity. Also that he sticks to what he believes.
It was fascinating to see the painting shredd itself after the auction. It was probably the best publicity move he could ever make for himself.