BANKSY AT RISK OF EXPOSING HIS IDENTITY AFTER ART ON HISTORIC BUILDING IN LONDON

Although Banksy has never been afraid to take chances, his most recent one might jeopardise his anonymity. The British artist shared a photo of his most recent piece on Instagram on Monday. The stencil, which is painted on the side of the Royal Courts of Justice, depicts a judge striking a protester who is lying on the ground with a bleeding sign with his gavel.

The piece is thought to be a reference to pro-Palestine demonstrations and the recent arrest of about 900 pro-Palestine activists in London, despite Banksy's failure to include an explanation in the title. Guards swiftly covered the work, setting up two metal barricades and a plastic sheet in front of the wall. The mural follows a demonstration in Parliament Square on Saturday, September 6, during which over half of the attendees were arrested in what The Daily Mail refers to as "Britain's biggest ever mass arrest."

Banksy could get into trouble for more reasons than just his content. The Royal Courts of Justice is legally protected to preserve its original character because it is a registered heritage building. Since "The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obligated to conserve its original character," removal plans are really already in motion, according to HM Courts and Tribunals.

The London Metropolitan Police stated in a press release that the artist's painting on the side of the Royal Courts of Justice has also sparked an investigation: "On Monday, September 8, officers received a report of criminal damage to the side of the Royal Courts of Justice." Investigations are ongoing. The anonymous artist would have to reveal his true identity if he were called to appear in court.

This is not the first time Banksy, renowned for being among the first foreign artists to paint the Separation Wall, has taken a risk. He has never hesitated to voice his social and political views, whether it is by supporting a boat to rescue refugees or by collecting money for Ukraine. This time, the only question is how much risk his stunt will pose.