Girl and Balloon
2004
Print on Paper
There is always hope…
"Girl with a Balloon" is one of Banksy's most famous images. It shows a little girl releasing a heart-shaped balloon into the sky, symbolising innocence, hope, and a longing for a better world.
Discovered on a London stairway in 2002, this powerful artwork conveys a message that transcends words. It speaks of hope, dreams, love and urges us to reflect on our everyday actions.
The piece was released as limited-edition prints in 2004/2005, with only 150 signed and 600 unsigned copies available. Its scarcity has made it highly sought after by collectors.
Notably, the artist incorporated a hidden shredder into the frame of the canvas. In a surprising twist, the artwork self-destructed moments after being sold at auction for £860,000. This act serves as both a significant artistic moment and a reflection on the commercialisation of art.