Banksy's Girl with Balloon

The Enigmatic Sale: Banksy's "Girl with Balloon" Sells for £80,000

In a remarkable event that stirred the art world and collectors alike, Banksy's iconic artwork "Girl with Balloon" recently sold at auction for an astonishing £80,000. This piece, a powerful symbol of hope and innocence, encapsulates the essence of the elusive street artist's work, combining poignant imagery with social commentary.

The Artwork

"Girl with Balloon" features a young girl reaching out toward a red heart-shaped balloon, evoking feelings of nostalgia and longing. Originally appearing as a mural in London in 2002, the artwork quickly became one of Banksy's most recognized pieces, often interpreted as a commentary on lost innocence and unattainable dreams. The sale of the piece has further solidified its status in the contemporary art canon, demonstrating the ongoing relevance of Banksy's work.

The Auction

The recent auction, held at Sotheby's, showcased not just the financial value of the artwork but also the growing interest in street art as a legitimate and collectible form of contemporary art. The £80,000 price tag is a testament to both Banksy's popularity and the increasing demand for unique, provocative art that challenges societal norms.

Who is Steve Lazarides?

To understand the context of Banksy's work, one must recognize the role of Steve Lazarides. An influential figure in the art world, Lazarides is not only Banksy's former manager but also a significant promoter of street art. He played a crucial role in bringing Banksy's work to a wider audience, helping to establish him as a leading figure in contemporary art.

Lazarides first met Banksy in the late 1990s and quickly became instrumental in organizing exhibitions and selling his art. He was pivotal in legitimizing street art, often facilitating the transition of pieces from the streets to galleries. His gallery, Lazarides, was one of the first to focus solely on street art, showcasing not just Banksy's work but also other notable artists in the genre.

The Impact of Lazarides

Lazarides's influence extended beyond mere representation; he helped cultivate a culture around street art that emphasized its value and importance. His efforts contributed to the rising prices for street art at auctions and galleries, transforming how the art world perceives this once-underappreciated medium.

In essence, the sale of "Girl with Balloon" for £80,000 is not just a financial milestone but also a reflection of the evolving landscape of contemporary art. It highlights the impact of figures like Steve Lazarides, who have championed artists like Banksy and paved the way for street art to be embraced by collectors and institutions.

Some may say, this is the fall of Banksy as this piece had sold previously for over £100,000.

What is for certain, is the relationship between Lazarides and Banksy is defintley over!

We have sold many Banksy works, and have clients who are looking for his work. If you are looking at selling yours, please get in touch.