Barcode Leopard
Barcode Leopard
Signed Spray Paint
Banksy
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43 x 51cm, Edition of 5, Spray Paint
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Meaning & Analysis
Banksy's Barcode is a signed spray-paint multiple released in 2002, depicting a leopard emerging from a barcode resembling bent cage bars, in his signature monochromatic, stencilled style. Produced in a rare edition of just 5, it comments on the connection between consumerist capitalism and humanity's disregard for other species.
The image is rendered in black and white and captures the essence of Banksy’s street art style which was influenced by other street artists such as Blek Le Rat, Robert Del Naja and Keith Haring.
The cage from which the leopard has just escaped resembles a barcode on wheels. The image can be interpreted as a critique of keeping animals in captivity and the way animals become products in zoos and are exploited as a means of entertaining humans and making money. By rendering the cage in the form of a barcode, Banksy links the enclosure to consumerism and capitalism, imbuing the artwork with a political message. The fact that the leopard is escaping the cage brings a sense of optimism to the artwork as it implies that we can free ourselves from the constraints and power of consumerism and capitalism
The canvas was exhibited at Banksy’s first solo exhibition in Los Angeles at the 33 ⅓ Gallery. Banksy continued to exhibit work in Los Angeles and made a name for himself in the United States following his Barely Legal Exhibit in 2006.
Renowned British street artist, Banksy, is the enigmatic figure behind some of the most subversive works in the Urban Art scene. Despite his anonymity, the artists' disruptive stunts have not only gained him notoriety, but they have vocalised his stance on many social and political issues. As seen with the likes of Girl With Balloon and Napalm, Banksy uses his distinctive stencil technique to produce thought-provoking commentaries on challenging themes. The showcase of rebellion that lines his work has caused his secondary market value to soar in recent years, propelling him to the top of the Urban Art scene.