• BANKSY    Editions

  • Flying Copper, 2003
    Screen-print on wove paper
    100cm x 70cm
    Edition of 750 (150 Signed)

    Flying Copper, 2003

    Flying Copper, 2003 is a print depicting a police officer with wings and a cartoon, smiley face, continuing Banksy's pattern of juxtaposing authority figures with child-like imagery. The iconography of the smiley face draws similarities to childish imagery, however also harks back to the 1990's acid house club scene which adopted this style of illustration which furthers the levels of contrast within the work.
     
    The figure in this artwork is heavily armed and wearing riot gear which can be interpreted as a criticism of the miltarisiation of the police force, especially when placed with the peaceful imagery of a smiley face and wings. There has long been debate over the role of a 'peacekeeper' within society and this work is a commentary on the distinction, if any, between the position of community protector and the militant force itself.

  • "Painting something that defies the law of the land is ok. Painting something that defies the law of the land and defies the law of gravity at the same time is ideal"

     

    - Banksy

    The contradiction here asks viewers to question who holds power and how that power is wielded. The repeated use of this motif in Banksy's repertoire suggests an ongoing concern with themes of control, authority, and rebellion. With its jarring combination of innocence and intimidation, Flying Copper, 2003 remains a powerful statement on societal trust and the complex nature of law enforcement. Incorporating many features that are heavily associated with Banksy's style, including graphic features placed onto heavily detailed silhouettes, this piece one of Banksy's most recognisable designs, as well as one of his earliest.