Banksy (born circa 1974, Bristol, England) is a world-renowned yet anonymous British street artist, political activist, and filmmaker. Emerging from the Bristol underground scene in the early 1990s, he initially worked with freehand graffiti before adopting stencils, which allowed him to execute his works quickly and with minimal risk of arrest. His distinctive stenciled style has since become his signature.

Banksy’s artworks—often appearing in public spaces without permission—blend dark humor with sharp social and political commentary. His recurring themes include anti-authoritarianism, anti-war sentiments, critiques of capitalism and consumerism, and reflections on power and inequality. His pieces have appeared on streets and buildings in cities around the world, from London and New York to Bethlehem, often sparking both public admiration and controversy.

Despite his anonymity, Banksy has achieved significant critical and commercial success. His works have been exhibited in major institutions and sold at leading auction houses. He continues to defy the conventions of the art world, challenging ideas of authorship, ownership, and the role of art in public space.