A fashion chain uses motifs by street artist Banksy for its clothes. It is a way for fashion to thank the artist, she says. However, he states in a post that he was not asked at all – and indirectly calls for shoplifting.
Out of anger at the use of one of his motifs, the mysterious street artist Banksy seems to have indirectly encouraged his fans to shoplift. The Brit posted a photo on his Instagram account that is supposed to show the window of a fashion chain in London. There, the well-known Banksy motif “Flower Thrower” can be seen behind some items of clothing – a masked man who is about to throw a bouquet of flowers. The window reads: “Guess x Brandalised with graffiti by Banksy.”
Banksy wrote: “Beware pickpockets: Please go to Guess on Regent Street. They have used my art without asking. How can it be wrong if you do the same with their clothes?” By Friday evening, more than 900,000 users had “Liked” the post.
The company previously announced a collection inspired by Banksy’s spray art. According to a press release, creative director Paul Marciano said: “Banksy’s graffiti have had a phenomenal impact that resonates throughout popular culture.” The collection is a way for fashion to thank the artist for it. It was created in collaboration with Brandalised, whose mission is “to offer affordable graffiti collectibles to Banksy fans”. Brandalised sells numerous products with Banksy motifs. There was initially no reaction from Guess.
Banksy’s identity is unknown. The only thing that has been clarified is that he comes from Bristol in western England. Most recently, he caused a stir with graffiti on war-damaged buildings in several Ukrainian cities.