Banksy (1974), Warning Sign (2006)

Banksy (b. 1974) Warning Sign, 2006 Spray enamel on street sign 31-1/2 x 31-1/2 inches (80.0 x 80.0 cm) with metal pole attached which is 94 inches (238cm) high Signed on reverse: BANKSY PROVENANCE: The artist; Christie's London, July 1, 2008, Lot 325, acquired from above; Private collection. EXHIBITED: This work was widely exhibited in Steve Lazarides' The Art of Banksy, touring exhibition from October 2016 until April 2017. Warning Sign was the feature work when you entered the main hall of the exhibition. This work is accompanied by a Pest Control Certificate of Authenticity from Pest Control. Banksy's Warning Sign has become a powerful symbol of commemoration and remembrance in the wake of the September 11th attacks and the ongoing geopolitical turmoil that has followed. Created by the enigmatic British street artist, this provocative artwork is a testament to the enduring legacy of that fateful day and the lessons that we must never forget. Hailing from Bristol, England, Banksy's real identity remains unknown to this day, adding to the allure of his defiant artworks that challenge societal norms and spark critical discourse. With a distinctive style that blends dark humour and subversive commentary, Banksy's iconic artworks have cemented his legacy as one of our time's most influential artists and political activists. Warning Sign which can be read in conjunction with Banksy's archetypal provocative themes, serves instead, above all else, as a commemorative piece, honouring the lives lost and the sacrifices made on that unforgettable day. With its blend of social critique and artistic simplicity, the artwork embodies the spirit of Banksy's oeuvre. It is a call to action, urging us never to forget the lessons of the past and to continue working towards a more peaceful and just future. Whether viewed as a symbol of hope or a warning of the dangers that lie ahead, it is a work that demands to be seen and heard. Through its powerful imagery and potent message, Warning Sign serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, art can still inspire, heal, and unite. Using a road sign as a canvas, Banksy cleverly nods to the ubiquity of these symbols in our daily lives, underscoring the artwork's impact. The artist's distinctive style is immediately recognizable, lending the piece a potent immediacy. The use of a road sign also speaks to the idea of direction and movement, urging the viewer to proceed along what may be a hazardous route with caution. In this sense, the piece becomes a metaphor for the events of September 11th and their indisputable role as catalysts, reshaping the world as we know it and shifting its trajectory towards more uncertain times. As we continue to grapple with the legacy of that tragic day, may we look to works like Warning Sign for guidance and inspiration, never forgetting the lessons of the past as we strive towards a brighter future. HID09710052018 © 2022 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Condition Report: Rusting to sign, most visible to reverse, which is controlled and stable. This is consistent with the work being painted on a ‘found’ street sign taken ‘from the street’.