In the summer of 2009, the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery was transformed into a mesmerising space by local artist Banksy, who curated a unique exhibition that would come to be known as “Banksy versus Bristol Museum”. The exhibition ran for 11 weeks, from June 13th to August 31st, and featured more than 100 works of art that explored the themes of rebellion, politics, and social justice.
Banksy’s artistic genius was on full display as he placed his paintings in unexpected and unconventional locations throughout the museum, between historical collections of Old Masters and other exhibits. The sculptures, such as Angel Bust and other pieces, were ingeniously placed among the museum’s displays, creating an intriguing and thought-provoking contrast between the old and the new.
Upon entering the museum, visitors were greeted with an ominous sight: a burnt-out ice cream van blaring an eerie tune, which set the tone for the exhibition’s unconventional atmosphere. A riot policeman was mounted on a children’s horse ride, adding to the exhibition’s surreal and dystopian vibe. Even fish fingers swimming in a goldfish bowl were on display, a surprising and unexpected addition to the museum’s collection.
The exhibition had an irresistible draw, forming lengthy queues that wound around Bristol. The atmosphere was electric as people eagerly awaited to witness some of the day’s most thought-provoking and controversial art. Some were so passionate about the experience that they waited for as long as seven hours to gain entry, a testament to the event’s immense appeal and cultural significance.
For those who missed out, the trailer for Banksy versus Bristol Museum offers an intriguing glimpse into the exhibition’s captivating world.
The exhibition was a groundbreaking and thought-provoking experience that challenged traditional art and museum curation notions. Banksy’s unique perspective and artistic vision left a lasting impression on all lucky enough to witness a truly unforgettable exhibition.
A series of original posters were released to commemorate the Banksy vs Bristol Museum exhibition held from June 13th to August 31st, 2009. The collection includes four official Banksy posters, each with its own unique design and message. The posters are named after the featured artworks, including the Banksy vs Bristol Museum 2009 Klansman Poster, Banksy vs Bristol Museum 2009 Dorothy Poster, Banksy vs Bristol Museum 2009, Banksy vs Bristol Museum 2009 David Poster, and Banksy vs Bristol Museum 2009 Riot Copper Poster. These posters are a powerful reminder of the exhibition’s impact and the artist’s ability to captivate his audience with his bold and thought-provoking works.
Visit our online store here to discover an extensive collection of Banksy’s thought-provoking and visually stunning artworks. Our selection includes iconic pieces reflecting society, politics, and culture, each with its unique message and style. If you’re searching for a particular artwork that’s been difficult to find, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts. We’re here to help you acquire and add that elusive piece to your collection.