Banksy
CND Soldiers (Unsigned), 2005
Screen print
27 1/2 x 19 3/4 in
70 x 50 cm
70 x 50 cm
Edition of 350
Series: CND Soldiers
Copyright The Artist
CND Soldiers by Banksy is a 2003 screen print released by Pictures on Walls that consists of a signed edition of 250 and an unsigned edition of 350. The work is one of Banksy’s most overtly political pieces and can be read as both an anti-war and anti-nuclear message. In the 2003 print, we see two soldiers, one holding a machine gun on the watch out and the other painting a large, red peace sign on a wall. The title CND Soldiers refers to the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, a British organization that advocates for nuclear disarmament. The work is both playful and serious as Banksy calls into question the hypocrisy within the military and their role in both keeping the peace as well as causing violence. The peace sign being painted by one of the soldiers suggests that the type of peace that a military force imposes is not real. This illusionary peace is actually a form of control within Banksy’s world and shows the power dynamics in play when an occupying force invades a land - often for ulterior motives. Contextually, this work was created around the 2nd Iraq War led by then British Prime Minister Tony Blair and President George W Bush. Famously, the British parliament was misled as to the extent of Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction which caused the British public to turn on the sitting government leading to protests of millions of citizens marching on the halls of power at Westminster. The piece was recreated and displayed in a collection at the Tate Britain gallery in 2007.
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.
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