Banksy
Have A Nice Day (Anarchist Book Fair) (Signed), 2003
Screen print
Signed
Signed
12 1/4 x 39 in
31 x 99 cm
31 x 99 cm
Edition of 67
Series: Have A Nice Day
Copyright The Artist
Banksy's Have a Nice Day is a 2003 screen print by the street artist Banksy that was published by Pictures on Walls and released as a signed edition of 150 and an unsigned edition of 500. A rare, landscape work, Have a Nice Day is considered by many Banksy collectors to be the sister print to both Bomb Middle England and Weston Super Mare. The work is reminiscent of a selection of Banksy prints including Flying Copper and Grin Reaper which, like Have a Nice Day. feature the famous acid-house smiley face of the 1990s. The smiley face, a symbol of youth and rebellion, adds a comic twist to the menacing police formed in a great line surrounding an armoured vehicle. Immediately, we as viewers sense danger, but danger from what? Rather than seeking to protect us as a society, the comic figures of Have a Nice Day suggest control, dominance and authority crushing against what is just and fair. The print's message is that the police are not always what they seem, and that their authority should be questioned and challenges the authority of those in power. Finally, in one final Banksy twist, the title itself is ironic given that most would be intimidated faced with a line of riot police, the title Have a Nice Day refers ironically, that a nice day would not be had. In Banksy’s world, power is earned and not taken.
Banksy, the elusive and pseudonymous street artist, has gained international acclaim for his thought-provoking and often politically charged artwork. While Banksy is primarily known for his public murals and installations, he has also ventured into the world of prints, allowing a wider audience to access and appreciate his work.
Banksy prints are reproductions of the artist's original creations, typically made using various printmaking techniques such as screen printing or lithography. These prints serve as a means for Banksy to reach a broader audience beyond those who can encounter his street art in person. They also offer an opportunity for art enthusiasts to own a piece of Banksy's work without having to acquire a large-scale mural or installation.
One of the most famous Banksy prints is arguably "Girl with a Balloon," which features a young girl reaching out toward a red, heart-shaped balloon. This image has become iconic and has been reproduced in various forms, including prints. Another notable print is "Flower Thrower," depicting a rioter preparing to throw a bunch of flowers instead of a Molotov cocktail. Banksy's prints often carry a strong message or commentary on societal issues, combining humor, wit, and social critique.
The limited edition nature of Banksy prints adds to their allure. Many of his prints are released in limited quantities, contributing to their collectible and valuable status. The limited availability, combined with Banksy's mysterious identity, has led to a significant demand for his prints in the art market.
However, the authenticity of Banksy prints can be a subject of scrutiny due to the prevalence of unauthorized reproductions. To address this, Banksy's authentication body, Pest Control, was established to verify the authenticity of his works. Pest Control issues certificates of authenticity for authorized Banksy prints, helping collectors ensure the legitimacy of their acquisitions.
Banksy's prints play a crucial role in making his art more accessible to a wider audience, bridging the gap between street art and traditional art markets. The popularity and significance of Banksy prints highlight the enduring impact of his thought-provoking and socially relevant imagery, making him a notable and influential figure in the contemporary art scene.
