Banksy
Flying Copper (Unsigned), 2003
Screen print
39 3/8 x 27 1/2 in
100 x 70 cm
100 x 70 cm
Edition of 600
Series: Flying Copper
Copyright The Artist
Flying Copper is a recurring motif in Banksy’s artworks and appears as a series of prints and paintings some of which appeared at Banksy’s famous Turf War exhibition in East London. Created in 2003 and released by Pictures on Walls, the unsigned print edition consists of 600 prints. Smiley Copper blends seemingly different imagery into a coherent and humorous image which is typical of Banksy’s ability to create juxtaposition in his works. Flying Copper depicts a British riot police officer in full riot gear which is undermined and toyed with by the addition of angel wings on their back and the famous acid house smiley - a motif associated with free love and 90s UK rave culture. Like with many of Banksy works, the piece seeks to subvert the notion of authority and complacency within our society. Banksy calls into question both authority figures and their violence exploring those in positions of power and who seek to control and manipulate those who are deemed below them. Riot police, by their very nature, are figures of control who seek to dominate, who quell insurrections and protest and limit free speech. Banksy highlights the hypocrisy in these self imposed keepers of order and justice and asks the viewer to reconsider just why they hold such power over us through violence and intimidation. A friendly reminder from Banksy that we, as a society, should challenge police brutality and the dangers of those who hide behind a friendly face.
Banksy's Flying Copper, created in the early 2000s, stands as a significant piece in the mysterious and influential street artist's collection. Known for his provocative and politically charged work, Banksy in this piece presents a compelling juxtaposition of authority and whimsy that is characteristic of his approach to art.
The artwork features a heavily armed, helmeted police officer, or copper, but with an unexpected twist: instead of hands, the officer is holding bright yellow smiley-faced balloons. Additionally, the figure is adorned with angel wings, adding a surreal and contradictory element to the image. This combination of a symbol of authority with childlike, whimsical elements is a classic example of Banksy’s style, where he frequently employs contrasts to challenge viewers' perceptions and societal norms.
At its core, Flying Copper can be seen as a critique of authority and power. The presence of a police officer, traditionally a figure of stern authority and control, holding innocuous balloons, undermines the conventional image of the police. Furthermore, the addition of angel wings to this armed figure creates an ironic interplay between the themes of protection and oppression, suggesting a complex and multifaceted view of law enforcement.
The visual style of Flying Copper is marked by Banksy's signature stencil technique, creating a stark and impactful visual impression. The monochromatic color scheme of the officer, contrasted sharply with the vibrant yellow of the balloons, serves to draw the viewer’s attention and emphasize the absurdity of the juxtaposition.
Like much of Banksy's work, Flying Copper is open to various interpretations but engages deeply with themes of power, authority, and societal norms. It invites viewers to reconsider their assumptions about law enforcement and authority figures.
The piece has been reproduced in various forms, including as a screen print, and has become a sought-after item in the art market. The popularity of Flying Copper underscores Banksy's ability to resonate with a broad audience by blending humor, social commentary, and visually striking imagery. This artwork remains a poignant example of Banksy’s unique approach to art and his ongoing critique of societal structures and norms.
The artwork features a heavily armed, helmeted police officer, or copper, but with an unexpected twist: instead of hands, the officer is holding bright yellow smiley-faced balloons. Additionally, the figure is adorned with angel wings, adding a surreal and contradictory element to the image. This combination of a symbol of authority with childlike, whimsical elements is a classic example of Banksy’s style, where he frequently employs contrasts to challenge viewers' perceptions and societal norms.
At its core, Flying Copper can be seen as a critique of authority and power. The presence of a police officer, traditionally a figure of stern authority and control, holding innocuous balloons, undermines the conventional image of the police. Furthermore, the addition of angel wings to this armed figure creates an ironic interplay between the themes of protection and oppression, suggesting a complex and multifaceted view of law enforcement.
The visual style of Flying Copper is marked by Banksy's signature stencil technique, creating a stark and impactful visual impression. The monochromatic color scheme of the officer, contrasted sharply with the vibrant yellow of the balloons, serves to draw the viewer’s attention and emphasize the absurdity of the juxtaposition.
Like much of Banksy's work, Flying Copper is open to various interpretations but engages deeply with themes of power, authority, and societal norms. It invites viewers to reconsider their assumptions about law enforcement and authority figures.
The piece has been reproduced in various forms, including as a screen print, and has become a sought-after item in the art market. The popularity of Flying Copper underscores Banksy's ability to resonate with a broad audience by blending humor, social commentary, and visually striking imagery. This artwork remains a poignant example of Banksy’s unique approach to art and his ongoing critique of societal structures and norms.
