Banksy, Flying Copper, unsigned screenprint edition of 600, 2003
Flying Copper is an unsigned screenprint edition of 600 and is an early iconic image known around the world. The image exhibits an armed British policeman – in complete riot garb: machine gun, walkie-talkie, cuffs, helmet – with the addition of a disarming ‘smiley face’ (synonymous with Britain’s ‘90s rave culture) and a pair of sprayed angel wings. The background is a block of bright, sky blue. Typical of a lot of Banksy’ Street Art, with the use of contrasting styles (photo-realistic stencils combined with graphic features) this artwork, demonstrates the vast disparity between what we associate with the ‘smiley face’ (happiness), and what we associate with riot gear (fear and intimidation). The little angel wings on his back accentuate an amusing juxtaposition between morality, truth, military control and intimidation. It is usual for Banksy to remind us to be sceptical and wary of authority figures abusing power.
