Banksy
There were, quite literally, about 1000 people in line; it was the only art show I’ve ever been searched for sharpies and graffiti implements on the way into; and the elephant in the room was. . . well, gone by the time I got in, but the Banksy Barely Legal show basically rocked.
There are a lot of artists out there who try to be funny and “street”, and plenty of angry youngs artists trying to do remix, but Banksy just nails the right balance of intellectual wit without pretension, authentic ire at authoritative regimes, actual artistic capabilities, and pop-culture sensibility. Plus he’s freakin’ hilarious. Hope you were able to catch it, but if not, there are tons of photos on Flickr.
photos by Notrivers and Beopenguin via CC
September 18th, 2006 10:05
It was arguably the most powerful show I’ve been to, in terms of not only offering a very clear call to action to the viewers but also mocking those viewers who were interested merely in the aesthetics.
September 18th, 2006 10:11
Totally - and the people who cater to them. I was very struck by the large image of the news producer holding back red cross workers from an injured kid so the cameramen could get the shot - particularly a propos in this town. “Anyone want a free glass of wine?”
September 18th, 2006 16:57
verrrry jealous.