Banksy: The Bristol Legacy

Collection of essays

Prof Paul Gough, Vice Chancellor at University West of England invited me to contribute a chapter on the Bristol Street Art scene for his book, 'Banksy The Bristol Legacy', published by Redcliffe Press Ltd in 2012.

Analysis carried out by Bristol City Council following 'Banksy v the Museum' at Bristol City Art Gallery & Museum in 2009 (bankrolled by the artist), demonstrated the extent of economic and cultural benefits resulting from the project for the city. In my essay, I make the point that this data clearly illustrates that Bristol must invest more in local talent to gain future return.

To illustrate my argument, I explore the importance of 'Banksy v Bristol Museum' and the RWA exhibition, 'Crimes of Passion: Street Art in Bristol', which immediately preceded it, in the context of the international street art movement.

Later in 2012, I joined a panel for 'Banksy: Prankster or Painter?' with Kate Brindley, then Director of Bristol City Museum & Art Gallery, who worked with Banksy and Pest Control on the infamous 'Banksy v The Museum' show in 2009, which was seen by 300,000 people; and Will Ellsworth-Jones, author of 'Banksy, the Man Behind the Wall'.

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