Banksy’s Street Art Exhibition Opens in Tallinn
Text Mark Taylor Photos Susanna Poikela
“The Mystery of Banksy: Genius Mind,” an exhibition showcasing the street art of the world-famous artist Banksy, opens today in Tallinn. The exhibition features over 150 works spanning Banksy’s entire creative career to date, including graffiti, photographs, sculptures, video installations, and prints on various materials, specially copied and collected for this event.
Banksy began his career in the 1980s on the streets of his native Bristol. He switched to using stencils, finding the technique faster and more practical for evading police attention. This method allowed him to create intricate pieces quickly and make a swift getaway if necessary.
Why does Banksy remain anonymous? His use of public spaces for his provocative street art, which tackles issues such as environmental crimes, wars, and social problems, can be divisive. He believes that anonymity allows him to speak the truth without repercussions. Banksy is known for saying, “To speak the truth, you have to wear a mask.” His anonymity allows him to express opinions from outside mainstream society.
Banksy has been labelled both an anarchist and a capitalist. While his art often challenges societal norms, his works are also sold at top auction houses, contributing to the global Banksy brand. Despite the commercial success, his art retains a strong element of social commentary.
A guide at the exhibition explains, “Once all the costs of setting up and running the exhibition have been paid, the remaining proceeds go directly to the maintenance of the rescue ship Louise Michel and the funding of its missions.” The ship operates in the Mediterranean, rescuing dozens of refugees in distress at sea every week.
The Banksy exhibition will run until October 27, 2024, at the M-hall in the Telliskivi Creative Centre in Tallinn. Telliskivi is located in northern Tallinn, near the Balti Jaam market and within walking distance of the main railway station. The main entrance of the exhibition is marked by a striking graffiti of a tiger’s head.
More information about the exhibition.
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