The artist’s latest mural appearing to critique the misuse of judicial power has sparked an investigation
Secretive street artist Banksy could be unmasked by a UK police probe into his new mural in London, The Telegraph has reported. Known for his politically charged and socially critical works, Banksy has kept his identity hidden for more than 25 years.
According to the newspaper, the Metropolitan Police is investigating graffiti that appeared on an external wall of the Queen’s Building, part of the Royal Courts of Justice complex, on Monday. The mural shows a judge in a wig and gown holding a gavel about to strike a protester, who is depicted lying on the ground with a white, blood-spattered placard.
Banksy confirmed authorship by posting a picture of the mural on Instagram, his usual method of claiming his works.
Police said they are investigating the mural as possible “criminal damage,” as it was painted on a Grade II-listed building of historical significance.
If the case goes to court, Banksy would be required to disclose his real name, the report said. It is not the first probe involving Banksy’s art, although previous proceedings preserved his anonymity through court arrangements and proxies. However, it is the first criminal investigation, which experts say could potentially force him to reveal his identity.
The graffiti is believed to reference the UK government’s ban on activist group Palestine Action. The organization was outlawed under the Terrorism Act in June after its members allegedly broke into a military base and spray-painted two aircraft in protest against Israel’s campaign in Gaza. Since then, its supporters have held several demonstrations against the ban, including a rally in Parliament Square on Saturday, where nearly 900 people were detained.
Defend Our Juries, a group behind Saturday’s protest, praised the mural, saying it “powerfully depicts the brutality unleashed” by the government ban.
Banksy’s identity has fueled speculation since his first artwork appeared in 1999. He has become one of the world’s most famous artists, with his works selling for millions of dollars at auction and often targeted by thieves. Over the years, Bristol artist Robin Gunningham and Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja have been floated as possible identities, but none have been confirmed.
