Vandalised 'Banksy' Painting Removed from Glasgow Building
Key Highlights :
The artwork of a rodent wearing a Union Jack hat and playing a drum, which had the words “God save the King” on it, first appeared on the side of a building off Buchanan Street in Glasgow on Wednesday. Speculation arose that the image was a Banksy due to the artist's exhibition at the nearby Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA). However, on Thursday, blue paint had been sprayed on top of the artwork, and it was later removed.
The artwork does not appear on Banksy’s official website, Pest Control, which catalogues all of the artist’s genuine work. A spokesman for the council confirmed that the artwork was not by Banksy and encouraged people to go to the exhibition at Goma to be certain of viewing a true Banksy.
Depute Lord Provost of Glasgow Christy Mearns had urged the council not to remove the painting, tweeting on Wednesday: “I flagged this to council and asked that it is not removed. It’s a building in a very public space – and it’s not affecting the building in any way.” However, the council decided to remove the painting, leaving many people disappointed.
The removal of the painting highlights the importance of verifying the authenticity of artwork before assuming it to be a Banksy. Although the painting may have been inspired by Banksy’s work, it is not an official piece and should not be treated as such. It is important to remember that Banksy’s artwork is highly sought after, and so people should be wary of any artwork claiming to be a Banksy.
The artwork in Glasgow may have been removed, but Banksy’s exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art is still running until the end of February. This is a great opportunity for art lovers to view some of Banksy’s work up close and personal. It is also a great opportunity for people to learn more about the artist and his work.
The removal of the painting in Glasgow serves as an important reminder that artwork should always be verified before it is assumed to be a Banksy. The artwork may have been inspired by the artist, but it is not an official piece. The best way to view Banksy’s work is to visit the exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow.
