BANKSY, DONUTS, CHOCOLATE, SIGNED SCREEN PRINT, EDITION OF 299, 2009
Donuts, Chocolate is a screen print on paper and a limited edition of 299. This piece came after the original Strawberry piece and features a chocolate donut covered in chocolate sprinkles atop an American police van. The blue and red spots as flashing lights of the police vehicles are among the few splashes of colour in the artwork. On top of the police van is a giant donut, which could represent Banksy’s ironic commentary on police values: in America, the police are stereotyped and ridiculed for their love of coffee and donuts. This artwork could be a satirical suggestion that the police prioritise the safety of their snacks (or their benefits, generally) over the safety of their prisoners.
Alternatively, the image could have a broader meaning, if we view the police as mere 'enforcers', perhaps they are protecting the very essence of capitalism and commercialism, represented by the donut. It is rare for Banksy to create a piece that doesn’t have some form of social, environmental, or political message, so it's unlikely that the piece is simply about donuts. The police are a frequent subject of ridicule for Banksy, such as in his notorious Rude Copper work.
Read more about Donuts by Banksy.
ABOUT BANKSY
Banksy is undoubtedly the world’s most sought-after and talked about street artist, his work represents his political and social commentary on the world, and has appeared on city walls throughout it – from London to New York, from Jamaica to the Gaza Strip.
Banksy is not only known for his high profile murals, he has been releasing limited edition prints for many years, produced in various formats, including signed and unsigned works, as well as artist proofs and gift prints. However, only a very select number of people know exactly what the elusive street artist creates and how many he releases. Some editions, for example, are only made available to VIPs, collectors and friends of Banksy’s who are part of the much-coveted inner circle. This has only made the demand for his limited edition silkscreen prints and artists proofs in circulation, grow in popularity year on year. Learn more about street artist Banksy.