A series of street artworks resembling the signature style of the elusive artist Banksy have appeared overnight on the streets of Glasgow. However, Banksy’s studio has confirmed that these pieces are indeed fakes. The stenciled artworks feature rats, a recurring subject in Banksy’s work, leading some to speculate that the renowned British street artist was behind them.
One of the artworks depicts a rat playing a broken marching drum with the words “God save the king” and wearing a hat adorned with the colors of the Union Jack. The rat’s tail is ensnared in a trap with a copy of The Sun, a British tabloid newspaper owned by Rupert Murdoch. The piece was first spotted on Wednesday and had already been partially painted over by Thursday, according to the BBC.
The appearance of these artworks coincided with the opening of an official exhibition of Banksy’s work in Glasgow. However, Glasgow City Council has confirmed that the street artworks are not authentic. A council spokesperson advised people seeking genuine Banksy works to visit the exhibition at GoMA (Gallery of Modern Art) in Glasgow.
Titled “Cut and Run,” the exhibition marks Banksy’s first official show in 14 years and is on display in Glasgow until August 28. It offers visitors a glimpse into the artist’s practice and thinking, showcasing artworks, artifacts, and personal items, including his iconic toilet artwork. Richard Whiddington, writing for Artnet News, described the exhibition as an opportunity to delve into the mind of one of the world’s most famous street artists.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges associated with authenticating Banksy’s works. In a recent case, a British couple paid nearly $250,000 to have an official Banksy artwork removed from their property. They were informed by the town council that they would be responsible for maintaining the artwork at an annual cost of approximately $49,000 in order to protect it as a tourist attraction.
As the debate surrounding the authenticity of the Glasgow Street artworks continues, it is evident that the allure and impact of Banksy’s work remain powerful. While these particular pieces may not bear his signature, they have sparked discussions about the elusive artist and the ongoing fascination with his subversive and thought-provoking creations.