CND Soldiers — Signed

About This Work

Banksy's "CND Soldiers — Signed" is an evocative screenprint on paper, encapsulating the artist's skill in merging potent political commentary with arresting visual artistry. The artwork, a signed limited edition print, captures Banksy's quintessential style — marrying sharp wit with a guerrilla approach to art-making that has etched his work into the annals of contemporary culture. In this work, two soldiers are depicted stenciling a peace symbol — an unmistakable emblem of anti-war sentiment — an act loaded with irony and critique, characteristic of Banksy’s oeuvre. Screenprinting, a medium synonymous with mass production and popular culture, is wielded here with intentionality. Banksy's choice of technique amplifies the message, highlighting the ubiquitous nature of conflict and the urgent call for peace. The precise lines and bold contrast of the stencil technique enhance the immediacy of the imagery, making the artwork resonate as a call to action. This choice of medium by Banksy, renowned for his quick, public stencil works, bridges his street art roots with fine art collectibility, allowing the piece to straddle worlds as effortlessly as Banksy himself. The thematic exploration in "CND Soldiers — Signed" aligns with Banksy’s broader artistic narrative. Born circa 1974 in the vibrant underground scene of Bristol, Banksy’s evolution from a freehand graffiti artist with the DryBreadZ crew to a globally renowned figure was marked by a distinctive move to stencils. This adaptation allowed for rapid execution in public spaces, critical for the guerrilla tactics inherent in his work. His art often challenges societal norms and presses for social change, a narrative thread acutely visible in this piece where military imagery is subverted to advocate for peace. Banksy's works are unique cultural nexus points where art meets activism. From his early Bristol works like 'The Mild Mild West' to landmark installations such as 'Dismaland' and 'The Walled Off Hotel', Banksy has consistently used his platform to provoke, entertain, and challenge. "CND Soldiers — Signed" is emblematic of his artistic journey, with its irreverent defiance and accessible medium echoing the message that has made his anonymous presence so globally influential. This print finds a fitting home within the Zebra One Gallery collection, exemplifying the gallery's dedication to showcasing art that challenges and inspires.

About the Artist

Perhaps the most famous figure in street art working today, Banksy is known for urban interventions that demonstrate irreverent wit and a biting political edge. Enhancing his mystique by maintaining an anonymous identity, the artist has modified street signs, illegally printed his own currency, and ...

Zebra One Gallery

Contemporary Art • Hampstead, London

Established 1976 • 50 years of excellence in contemporary art • Professional authentication and provenance research