In a captivating entrance fit for a true masterpiece, Banksy’s iconic piranhas artwork will soon find its permanent home at the London Museum. The highly-anticipated unveiling is scheduled for next year, coinciding with the grand opening of the museum’s new location in the vibrant Smithfield district.
The striking artwork features a mesmerizing depiction of fierce piranhas transforming a humble police sentry box into a surreal aquarium. This piece was a standout creation from Banksy’s acclaimed animal-themed series, which took London by storm during a memorable summer exhibition.
The series, unveiled over nine days in August 2024, showcased nine awe-inspiring works scattered across the capital. From a rhino perched atop a car to two majestic elephants with intertwined trunks and mischievous monkeys playfully swinging on a bridge, Banksy’s art left an indelible mark on the city.
The London Museum was fortunate to secure the piranha piece after the esteemed City of London Corporation unanimously agreed to donate it to the museum. Expressing her enthusiasm, Sharon Ament, the Director of London Museum, hailed the arrival of Banksy’s artwork as a momentous occasion for art enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Ament remarked, “The sheer presence of a Banksy creation not only on our streets but also within the confines of a museum is truly special. Banksy’s ability to connect with people through his art, infused with vigor, humor, and unfiltered honesty, is unparalleled.”
She continued, emphasizing Banksy’s unique impact, “Encountering a Banksy piece is akin to stumbling upon a hidden gem in your own neighborhood—it’s a moment that resonates deeply. Banksy’s art transcends traditional boundaries, bringing art to the masses in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.”
Prior to Banksy’s transformative touch, the police sentry box had stood sentinel on Ludgate Hill since the 1990s before being relocated to Guildhall Yard post-confirmation of the artist’s authorship. The piranha artwork will be temporarily housed in the London Museum’s storage facilities before finding its permanent display space within the museum’s walls.
The City of London Corporation’s generous allocation of £222 million towards the museum’s relocation signifies a significant commitment to fostering cultural enrichment in the capital. The museum’s move is poised to draw an estimated two million visitors annually and generate over 1,500 employment opportunities, underscoring the transformative power of the arts.
Ament expressed gratitude for the Corporation’s support, labeling the acquisition of Banksy’s piranhas as a “gift to the people of London,” promising an unparalleled cultural experience for all who visit the museum.
As the countdown to the grand unveiling continues, anticipation and excitement are palpable throughout the city. Banksy’s artistic legacy is set to captivate visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in a world where imagination
