Banksy
Flag (Silver) (Unsigned), 2008
Screen print
19 3/4 x 27 1/2 in
50 x 70 cm
50 x 70 cm
Edition of 1,000
Series: Flags
Copyright The Artist
Banksy Flag (Silver) is an unsigned print released by Pictures of Walls in 2008 as an edition of 1000 and is Banksy’s largest print edition. Flag (Silver) by Banksy is a unique, post-apocalyptic imagining of society where disenfranchised youth raise the American flag as they stand and scramble over a burn out car. Flag (Silver) is heavily inspired by one of the most important photos of the 20th Century “Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima” by American photographer Joe Rosenthal which won the 1945 Pulitzer Prize for Photography and has come to be regarded in the United States as one of the most recognizable images of World War II.. Banksy takes this famous image and reimagines it to powerful effect. Much like the soldiers in the original image, the youth that Banksy portrays are in the process of conquest. However, unlike the soldiers in the original image, Banksy’s lost youth appear to be taking something back and reclaiming their birth right - to what we ask? The youth themselves look downtrodden and lost as they navigate a 21st century wasteland, searching for both identity and meaning. Inherently, flags are objects of both ownership and of identification and can represent a country, cause or community. Through Flag (Silver) Banksy invites the viewer to reclaim their identity, to stand for a cause and question what is important to them.
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.
