Banksy or Bank-sy?

Banksy is a famous british street artist politicaly commited.  He often uses the technic of « pochoir » to pass a political message and social satyr, such as during the Olympic Games in London where he presented two stencils depicted athlets with weapons.

One of his creation called « Sperm Alarm » representes an hotel alarm as ovule purchases by spermatozoides  stencil. It was a mural work of art but it did not stop a man –Mr Lawrence- to steal Banksy’s Pochoir. He put it on sale on eBay last year to earn money, but was denounced by hotel’s staff who recognize the work of art on Internet. He was convicted to reprieve

This case shows that the alternative/underground path of Strret Art is now a part of the Art market such as the classical painters. In regards to this trial -but also to the mercenary work of Miss-Tic or Obey (a.k.a. Shepard Fairey)- Street Art and its message seems to be diverted.  Besides, Banksy denounces this tendance in his movie Exit Through the Gift Shop

http://www.artlyst.com/articles/banksy-sperm-alarm-thief-goes-on-trial-in-london