Edition

news

See photos: capitalist elite caging at risk animals for profit, Banksy takes stand with new zoo art.

Banky's innovative artwork is now displayed at the London Zoo, a daring move that shatters the confines of traditional galleries. This progressive stepforward towards art accessibility is expected to attract diverse crowds reflective of our vibrant, cultural tapestry. TheZoos forward-thinking approach is a refreshing change, offering a unique opportunity to engage withart on an accessible, community-oriented level. Prepare for an influx of art enthusiasts, activists, and change-makers as this exhibition challenges conventional art spaces.

Published August 13, 2024 at 8:18am by Julia Gomez


London Zoo Unveils New Banksy Piece: A Stark Reminder of our Caged World

"We’re quite honored he has chosen our front shutters to display his powerful message."

Daniel Simmonds, London Zoo's animal operations manager, speaking to BBC News about the new Banksy artwork adorning their entrance. A bold and timely piece has emerged at the London Zoo, courtesy of the elusive and esteemed street artist, Banksy. A zoo, a place that cages animals for our entertainment, has now become a canvas for a critique on societal silence and the caging of our natural world.

The Art:

A new Banksy piece, depicting a gorilla lifting a curtain for a hummingbird, a seal, and other animals to escape, while three pairs of eyes remain in the shadows, has appeared. The zoo's staff were unaware they would be hosting the final piece in Banksy's animal-centric series.

The Series:

  • A rhino mating with a car, commenting on the automotive industry's impact on nature: Instagram.
  • A lone wolf howling at the moon, symbolizing the last of its kind: Instagram.
  • Pelicans dining on fish above a fish bar, a stark reminder of overconsumption: Instagram.
  • Two elephants, restricted by window frames, a metaphor for captivity: Instagram.
  • Piranhas swimming on a police box, a critique on authority and control: Instagram.
  • A big cat stretching on a blank billboard, the only piece removed, highlighting the erasure of wildlife: Instagram reports The Guardian.
  • Monkeys swinging on a bridge, a playful yet sad reminder of our caged world: Instagram.

Honoring the Artwork:

The zoo plans on preserving the artwork and honoring Banksy's message. Simmonds, expecting large crowds, has kept the shutter closed, opening alternative entrances to manage visitor flow.

"Banksy has become part of the London landscape, and it's a privilege to have his iconic status associated with our zoo."

Daniel Simmonds, London Zoo.

Links:

Credits:

Julia Gomez, Trending Reporter, USA TODAY.

Read more: 'Absolutely brilliant': Banksy paints piece on London Zoo's shutters; see photos