There has been much excitement over the past 24 hours, following street artist Banksy’s announcement on Instagram that they had been responsible for the redecoration of a City of London Police sentry box on Ludgate Hill with a piranha design.
The City of London Corporation’s Streets and Walkways team moved quickly to protect the area and preserve the artwork, so it could be enjoyed by members of the public, however, it quickly became apparent that the number of visitors at the site was becoming unsafe, particularly given the volume of people in the road trying to take pictures.
Following discussions with City Police, it was agreed that there was a high likelihood that the artwork would either be vandalised or stolen if left where it was and therefore it was agreed that a temporary home at a secure location should be found.
During the night, the City Corporation’s team have managed to move the installation to the Guildhall Yard where it can continue to be enjoyed publicly, but in a site which has 24 hour security.
The team are working through options to preserve the artwork properly and find a permanent home for it.
It has sparked an interesting debate though. Why don’t we consider this criminal damage – is it because it has a significant monetary value? Should the artwork be sold and the benefit released for public services? Should the latest London collection be displayed together in a gallery? Food for thought.
