LONDON (AP) — A mural by the renowned street artist Banksy, featuring an environmentally themed design, recently made an appearance on a London street. The mural, located near a public housing project, depicted a small figure holding a pressure hose next to a real cherry tree with minimal leaves, symbolized by green paint on the wall.
The artwork quickly garnered attention from Banksy fans worldwide, but just two days after its unveiling, it was defaced with white paint. In response to this act of vandalism, the building owner took measures to protect the mural by encasing it in transparent plastic and installing fencing around the site, with a notice indicating video surveillance in place.
Subsequently, wooden boards were erected around the mural, as the local authority, Islington Council, decided to fence off the area to address concerns raised by residents about disruptions caused by the influx of visitors to the site. The council emphasized that the fencing, which includes clear plastic panels, aims to safeguard both the artwork and the residents from any adverse effects of the increased foot traffic.
Banksy, known for his anonymity and provocative street art, rose to fame for his distinctive style and social commentary. His works have fetched millions at auctions, and his outdoor murals have often faced removal or theft shortly after being unveiled. In a recent incident in December, a Banksy piece featuring military drones on a stop sign in south London was removed by individuals using bolt cutters, leading to arrests for theft and criminal damage.
Unlike previous works that were easier to remove, the latest mural's integration with the existing tree presents a challenge for potential vandals. Islington Council assured that they would closely monitor the site and collaborate with the building owner to explore long-term solutions that would allow the public to appreciate the artwork while ensuring its preservation.
