„It certainly resembles a Banksy, but could the stargazing children in Bayswater be the creation of a copycat artist?“ This statement raises questions about the latest artwork appearing in London that has captured the attention of the public.
The piece features two children lying on the ground, bundled in winter attire, with one pointing skyward. This new addition to the London art scene has ignited discussions on whether the infamous street artist and political satirist Banksy has returned.
Two Versions of the Artwork
A notable twist accompanies the artwork; there are two iterations featuring the same children in identical clothing. One is located in a high-traffic area of central London, near the Centre Point building at the junction of Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Street. The second rendition can be found in a more secluded part of the city, stenciled on what appears to be an abandoned structure in Queen’s Mews, Bayswater.
The version near Tottenham Court Road is believed to have appeared first, coinciding with the bustling activity of Christmas shoppers frequenting the nearby Outernet attraction. The other depiction, situated a short walk north of Kensington Gardens, surfaced later, generating further intrigue.
Authenticity and Theories
While both artworks exhibit Banksy’s characteristic monochrome style, the artist himself has not yet confirmed their authenticity. His most recent post on Instagram showcased a different piece, depicting a judge confronting a placard-holding protester, which was unveiled in September on the Royal Courts of Justice.
It would be atypical for Banksy to create duplicate works within such proximity—just two and a half miles apart—raising speculation about the motives behind these pieces. Ultimately, fans of Banksy will have the opportunity to ponder whether this artwork conveys a deeper message or simply serves as a festive delight.
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Bildquelle: cottonbro studio auf Pexels
