London, New York, Bristol
2001
Print on Wood
This spray paint and acrylic on canvas artwork showcases three significant locations for Banksy: his hometown of Bristol, along with two cities in the United States where the artist has not only sprayed his works but also organised exclusive installations.
The central focus of the piece is a single elephant portrayed in Banksy's distinctive stencil style, with a rocket affixed to its back. The imagery of an elephant carrying a rocket carries multiple interpretations, but the underlying message is often perceived as an anti-military statement, consistent with Banksy's other works that employ similar symbolism.
These three iconic locations hold significance for the artist, as they serve as platforms for his expression of critique, humour, and thought-provoking art. London, New York, and Bristol have witnessed the display of Banksy's "heavy weapons" of creativity, challenging societal norms and questioning established systems.
Since its creation in 2007, this artwork has been publicly auctioned only five times. The most recent sale took place at Bonhams London on December 9, 2020, where it fetched a price of GBP 312,750. Prior to that, the artwork was sold at Artnet Auctions in November 2017, reaching a price of USD 168,000. These sales reflect the demand and value placed on Banksy's captivating and socially conscious creations.