Banksy’s piranhas artwork will have a permanent home at the new London Museum in Smithfield, opening next year. This piece depicts an aquarium of fierce fish created from a police sentry box and is part of the artist’s animal-themed series launched in summer 2024. Other notable works from this series include a rhino on a car and two elephants reaching towards each other.

The City Of London Corporation voted to donate the piranha piece to the museum, which marks a significant acquisition for the attraction. Director Sharon Ament expressed excitement, stating that having a Banksy showcased inside the museum is an extraordinary opportunity that connects deeply with the public.

Additionally, the sentry box had been situated in Ludgate Hill since the 1990s and was moved to Guildhall Yard after Banksy confirmed authorship. The piece will be temporarily stored at the museum until its permanent exhibit space is ready.

The relocation effort, supported by a £222m budget from the City Of London Corporation, aims to draw in two million visitors annually and create over 1,500 jobs, enhancing the cultural landscape near the Barbican Centre. Ament described the acquisition as “a great gift for the people of London.”

The acquisition of Banksy’s piranhas for the London Museum represents an exciting development in the city’s artistic offerings, enhancing public access to significant contemporary art. The museum’s upcoming relocation promises to boost tourism and job creation in the area, making it an important cultural hub.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

The post Banksy’s Piranhas to be Permanently Displayed at New London Museum first appeared on The London Bell.

Banksy’s piranha artwork will be permanently displayed at the London Museum when it opens its new location in Smithfield next year. This piece, depicting fierce fish in a police sentry box, was part of Banksy’s animal-themed works exhibited throughout London last summer. In total, nine pieces were showcased over nine days, including a rhino on a car and two elephants reaching towards each other.

The City of London Corporation decided to donate the piranha artwork to the museum. Sharon Ament, the Museum’s Director, expressed her excitement, stating that having a Banksy on display is a significant moment, emphasising the artist’s profound connection with the public.

Historically, the sentry box, painted by Banksy, has been located in Ludgate Hill since the 1990s and was then moved to Guildhall Yard after the artist confirmed the piece was his. It will be temporarily stored in the Museum before being displayed. The City of London Corporation has invested £222m for the museum’s relocation, aiming to entice two million visitors annually and create over 1,500 jobs, while also supporting the Barbican Centre.

Ament described the acquisition of the Banksy work as a “great gift for the people of London,” highlighting the importance of accessible public art. The museum’s new space is expected to become a cultural hub for the city, celebrating contemporary art and engaging with diverse audiences.

Banksy’s piranha artwork will be showcased at the new London Museum in Smithfield, providing public access to a notable piece by the artist. Director Sharon Ament praises Banksy for his unique ability to connect with audiences. The museum’s relocation is a significant investment for London, expected to boost tourism and create numerous jobs.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk

The post Banksy’s Piranhas to Permanently Displayed at London Museum first appeared on The London Bell.