Banksy's "Bad Meaning Good" stands as one of his earliest creations, originating in 2002 and initially released as a signed original canvas in a limited edition of just 4 pieces. It formed part of a series spanning from 2002 to 2003, where Banksy crafted four distinct album covers for the Bad Meaning Good music compilations. These compilations featured tracks handpicked by various artists and were distributed on both CD and vinyl formats.
In the first volume's cover, Banksy incorporated a prominent red ‘X’ juxtaposed with a monochromatic machine gun stenciled on top. Likewise, the second volume's cover, also produced in 2002, showcased a grey ‘X’ alongside a stenciled black and white military vehicle.
The machine gun serves as a potent symbol of control or authority, which Banksy deftly employs to subtly critique established norms and convey his anti-establishment ethos. Notably, in Volume 1, the machine gun is whimsically adorned with an oversized pair of shoes, akin to clown footwear, suggesting a tone of mockery or artifice, thereby reinforcing Banksy's satirical perspective.