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Banksy Stop & Search Meaning & History
"Toto I have a feeling we're not in kansas anymore"
Stop and search by Banksy features the famous childhood character of The Wizard of Oz Dorothy aside a policeman dressed in riot gear examining the contents of her wicker basket. Typical of Banksy, the artwork features contrasting motifs, the innocence of Dorothy juxtaposed with the stern, authoritarian policeman. The limited edition print can read as a commentary on the controversial stop and search legislation introduced by the UK government in the 80’s which has courted controversy over its supposed unfair targeting of minorities.
The work is printed in black and white with the element of colour introduced through the blue of the policeman’s gloves. The surgical, clinical nature of the policeman inspires fear in Dorothy who looks distressed as the policeman conducts the search. A bystander devoid of agency, the young girl is unable to assert herself and is powerless against the state embodied by the policeman. Children are a typical motif used by Banksy, think Girl With Balloon, Napalm and Girl with TV to name a few, and can be associated with innocence, youth and childhood. Toto, her dog, stands by his owner and could be read as loyalty and companionship - supporting her owner in this troubled scene. -
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Buy or sell Stop & Search by Banksy at Andipa Editions.
Buy Stop & Search Print by Banksy
Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Banksy secondary market for over 15 years. To enquire about buying a Stop & Search print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.
Sell Stop & Search Print by Banksy
With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your Banksy Stop & Search print. Straight-forward and stress-free, we manage the process on your behalf and help to maximise your return. For a complimentary valuation of your Stop & Search print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371 or view our Banksy prints for sale and Banksy paintings for sale.