Works under the hammer

How Banksy makes our artists sparkle with ideas

Master of his trade: Banksy often goes where it "hurts" with his stencil graphics, graffiti and installations.(Bild: Rosie Hallam/Eyevine, MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP, Inger Lange/Camera Press (alle picturedesk.com), Krone KREATIV)

Banksy is both a phantom and a phenomenon. The artist's identity remains a secret to this day, but his graffiti, prints, paintings and installations are cult and fetch millions at auction. On Thursday, some of his famous "rat" works will once again go under the hammer in Los Angeles - while the Urban Art Festival in Amstetten (July 20/21) will soon be taking place in Austria. There, others are literally bursting with ideas. Also thanks to Banksy ...

His true identity is a secret, there is only speculation. Some say that British artist Robin Gunningham is behind it. Others think it is singer Robert Del Naja from the British band Massive Attack. Some still suspect "Mr. Brainwash" Thierry Guetta from the film "Exit Through the Gift Shop". Some suspect a woman. But a collective is also possible. The fact is: Banksy is both a phantom and a phenomenon.