Auction in Los Angeles: Banksy and his rats conquer the art world
In Los Angeles, the famous Julien's Auctions Street Art Invasion will host an event that promises exciting moments for fans of contemporary art. Anonymous British artist Banksy is back in the spotlight: several of his iconic works depicting rats are up for sale. According to data, the cost of these works exceeds 6.1 million hryvnias.
The story of Banksy's rats: from the subway to the auction
The first lot will be the work "Umbrella Rat", which was created in 2004 on the large steel door of the metro station in Berlin's Mitte district. This image has become a symbol of street art and its influence on urban space.
"Rat-umbrella" symbolizes the protection and at the same time the helplessness of a small creature in front of the big world, art critics comment.
The auction will also feature "Gangster Rat" and one of Banksy's posters dedicated to rats. This poster was stenciled on the chalkboard of a newsstand in London's Gray's Inn Road in 2004. Banksy tried to get passers-by to interact with the art, but the poster remained untouched. Its estimated value is between £30, 000 and £40, 000.
Auction competition: Invader and Shepard Fairey
In addition to Banksy's works, Julien's auction house will also exhibit works by other well-known street artists. French artist Invader and American activist, DJ and skateboarder Shepard Fairey will also join the event. Their works have also earned recognition beyond street art.
Saving art: Banksy's dismantled works
It is interesting that one of Banksy's works was recently dismantled in the Kyiv region for the purpose of preservation. This once again emphasizes the importance of protecting street art and its cultural value.
The auction in Los Angeles promises to be an important event in the art world, attracting the attention of collectors and fans of Banksy's work from around the world. Will robot rats conquer new heights? We follow the events!
Editor: Emiliia Morozova