Why a Banksy exhibition in Glasgow makes perfect sense
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Friday, June 23, 2023
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A new solo exhibition by Banksy, the UK’s most famous anonymous artist, has opened at the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) in Glasgow – his first in 14 years.
Key Points:
- A new solo exhibition by Banksy, the UK’s most famous anonymous artist, has opened at the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) in Glasgow – his first in 14 years.
- It is, Banksy says, his “favourite work of art in the UK”.
- His early transgressive artwork was seen by some as vandalism, but for many others, Banksy is an important counter voice subverting the dominant narrative of capitalism.
The Glasgow-Banksy connection
- It holds great meaning for Glaswegians in its anti-elitist and anti-establishment message, contributing to their social and cultural capital.
- It’s also a reminder of the extent to which the expression of all forms of culture have been central to Glasgow’s regeneration over recent decades.
- But the connection between Banksy and the city goes much deeper.
What to expect
- A critique of the often-racist nature of police stop-and-search powers, it sold in May 2023 for an astonishing $9,724,500 (£7,646,277).
- While creating this work on a bombed-out building, a local resident remonstrated with Banksy and threatened to call the police.
- A shared sense of humour, humanitarian values and a disregard for the establishment mean Banksy’s show will be well-received in Glasgow.