BANKSY // Donut, 2009

  • Banksy’s 2009 Donut van chased by police, humorous jab at law enforcement and excess.

    Banksy, Donut (Chocolate), 2009.
    Screen-print in colours on Arches wove paper, 56 × 76 cm.
    © Banksy.

    Doughnut features a sprinkle-covered doughnut sitting atop a police van, escorted by officers on motorbikes. The blue and red flashing lights of the police vehicles add bursts of colour to the mostly monochrome scene, highlighting the absurd importance given to the doughnut. 
     
    Banksy uses this image to poke fun at the stereotype of police loving doughnuts, suggesting they might prioritise protecting their snacks, or their own interests, over public safety. The artwork critiques law enforcement’s values with sharp, satirical wit, characteristic of Banksy’s style.
     
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  • "Graffiti is only dangerous in the mind of three types of people: politicians, advertising executives and graffiti writers." 

    — Banksy

    In Doughnut, Banksy transforms a sweet treat into a symbol of absurd authority. A giant, sprinkle-covered doughnut sits triumphantly on the roof of a police van, paraded through the streets under the escort of motorcycle officers. The work balances humour and criticism, highlighting how power can be misdirected toward trivialities.
    By exaggerating the cliché of police and their love of doughnuts, Banksy delivers a sly commentary on misplaced priorities within law enforcement. The contrast between the heavy presence of state power and the ridiculousness of its object of protection underscores his wider critique of authority, surveillance, and self-interest.
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    "Graffiti is only dangerous in the mind of three types of people: politicians, advertising executives and graffiti writers." 

    — Banksy

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