Banksy: The Man behind the Wall: Revised and Illustrated Edition

Author and journalist Will Ellsworth-Jones has written a book about the life and work of Banksy, the enigmatic and controversial artist who is famous for his street art and political commentary. The book explores Banksy's journey from a graffiti artist in Bristol to a global sensation, with beautiful reproductions of his most famous works. It also examines the contradictions of his life, from his private education to his reinventing himself as a rogue and outlaw.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2021
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd

In this extensively revised and lavishly illustrated edition, author and journalist Will Ellsworth-Jones meticulously pieces together a comprehensive portrait of the life and work of Banksy, arguably the most iconic, enigmatic, and controversial artist of modern times. Despite his penchant for shunning the limelight and concealing his identity, Banksy has achieved remarkable fame. With his anonymity, he rarely reveals his face and conducts interviews solely through email. However, his fame is astounding, considering his penchant for avoiding the spotlight.

This fully updated and illustrated story of Banksy's life and career constructs an intriguing portrayal of his world and unravels its contradictions. Whether considered art or vandalism, anti-establishment or sell-out, Banksy and his work have transcended cultural boundaries and have become a phenomenon. The question, "Who is Banksy?" is as much about his career as it is about the man behind the wall.

From his humble beginnings as a graffiti artist in Bristol, his artwork has now fetched seven-figure sums at auction and adorns the walls of celebrities. The appearance of a new Banksy is national news, his documentary "Exit Through the Gift Shop" was Oscar-nominated, and people eagerly queue for hours to witness his latest exhibition. Now more than an edgy outsider, Banksy has become a national treasure, and his journey from the graffiti-scrawled streets of Barton Hill, the working-class neighborhood of Bristol where he and his peers adorned the walls with vibrant pieces while evading the police, to some of the most prestigious galleries worldwide, where his daring acts of guerilla art have challenged our perception of what art can be, is captivating.

This book delves into Banksy's journey, tracing his trajectory from the graffiti-covered streets of Barton Hill to the esteemed galleries of the world. It explores his evolution from a street artist to a revered figure in the art world, examining the contradictions that shape his life. From the artist's own words to recollections of friends and colleagues, this book provides a comprehensive account of Banksy's life, shedding light on his transformation from a privately educated boy from a middle-class area of Bristol to the enigmatic figure he is today.

Through this captivating narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of Banksy's art, his impact on the cultural landscape, and the enigmatic persona that has captivated the world. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a curious observer, or simply intrigued by the enigma of Banksy, this book offers a compelling exploration of his life and work, providing a rich and immersive experience for all.

Weight: 830g
Dimension: 240 x 172 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780711264328