Banksy, ever the elusive provocateur, is at it again. His latest series is a cryptic odyssey through London– an animal trail perhaps–featuring nine days of pop-up artworks that have left the city abuzz with speculation, leaving many to wonder what they could possibly mean.
Each piece, unveiled without explanation on Instagram, has spurred a flurry of interpretations from art aficionados and graffiti enthusiasts alike. Unofficially dubbed the “zoo series,” the new work speaks in a subtle, layered language, inviting viewers to delve into its meanings rather than offering straightforward answers, true to Banksy’s form. The series has been linked to various global issues—animal rights, environmentalism, war, and British politics—but as the pieces continued to appear, pinning down a single narrative became increasingly complex.
On the latter, a spokesperson from Pest Control Office, the group behind Banksy, put the rumors to rest, suggesting people were reading too much into it. Instead, the works were meant to bring a moment of unexpected joy and highlight the human knack for creative play over destruction as per The Guardian, however, considering this is Banksy, we beg to differ.
Day 1: Goat
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The first Banksy piece to show up was a mountain goat, spotted by passers-by on a wall near the River Thames. The graffiti artist’s latest work, featuring a goat or possibly a Palestinian mountain gazelle as many have interrupted, could be subtly reflecting the plight of Palestinians in Gaza? Perhaps symbolizing their precarious existence? Many took to social media to represent such interpretations.The endangered animal, teetering on the edge, mirrors the suffocating conditions in Gaza, while the surveillance camera hints at global indifference. Banksy’s past works have critiqued similar injustices, but this piece might also echo recent UK violence, as a nod to the scapegoating of minorities during recent far-right riots in the UK. True to Banksy’s style, the piece’s ambiguity invites multiple interpretations.
Day 2: Elephants
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In this piece, Banksy uses elephants to explore the “elephant in the room” metaphor—an issue ignored but ever-present. Their intertwined trunks could symbolize a need for healing or a call to address ignored problems. Here, the elephants might suggest a need for conversation and reconciliation amidst ongoing issues.
Day 3: Monkeys
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The monkey is a recurring motif in Banksy’s work, a deliberately provocative figure he has employed since the early 2000s. Often depicted in ironic and humorous contexts, Banksy’s chimps serve as satirical reflections of a society that views itself as superior to the animal kingdom. These monkeys can symbolize fleeing from responsibility or mindlessly imitating others. Alternatively, they might suggest a movement from passive inaction to active engagement—a theme that may be reinforced by the following wolf mural, hinting at a potential call for unity.
Day 4: Wolf
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The lone wolf’s howl suggests a cry for connection or a lament for isolation. Painted with a satellite dish, it could symbolize a call for attention in an increasingly detached world. The wolf, separated from a pack, might represent a solitary voice yearning for recognition or solidarity.
Day 5: Pelican
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Banksy’s pelican juxtaposes symbols of sacrifice and excess. The bird’s large bill could suggest overconsumption or societal negligence, contrasting with its role as a symbol of nourishment. The ambiguity of the pelican reflects Banksy’s ongoing critique of societal flaws and self-indulgence.
Day 6: Cat
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The cat, stretching on a billboard, offers a moment of levity. While it might simply provide a break from the series’ supposed intensity, it also serves as a call to awaken and engage with the world. Its quick removal underscores the fleeting nature of such moments.
Day 7: Piranhas
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Banksy’s piranhas, detailed and menacing, adorn a police box, transforming it into an aquarium. This stark imagery critiques the predatory nature of authority, forcing a confrontation with power and its impact. Additionally, these piece according to some critics could also be a nod to fellow British artist Damien Hirst’s famous formaldehyde-soaked shark.
Day 8: Rhino
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A life-sized rhino appeared on a wall in Charlton, south-east London, seemingly mounting an abandoned Nissan Micra. A traffic cone on the car’s bonnet added a playful touch, making the vehicle resemble a second animal. However, at approximately 7:45 P.M. on Monday, a man in a balaclava was filmed defacing the rhino with a white graffiti tag, leaving it to the jeers of bystanders. According to The Art Newspaper, the Nissan Micra has since been removed from the site.
Day 9: Gorilla
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The final work features a gorilla depicted liberating a sea lion and birds from the London Zoo. This playful scene might critique captivity or celebrate freedom, blending humor with deeper commentary. As the series concludes, it reaffirms Banksy’s knack for blending satire with social observations. It’s very cool!” Rebecca Blanchard, media manager at the Zoological Society of London, told Sky News. The zoo confirmed that it is currently working on plans to preserve the artwork, “so as many people can enjoy it as possible in the future.”
