Fresh Banksy Appears in Folkestone, England

The original Banksy Art Buff (2014) in Folkestone, England Photo: Street Art News

A stencil mural by the street artist Banksy has appeared on a wall in Folkestone, England, the BBC reported. The piece depicts an elderly woman staring at an empty plinth whilst listening to an audio player.

The artist confirmed that the work was indeed his own by posting ‘before’ and ‘after’ images on his website. The mural, which has been dubbed Art Buff coincides with the town’s two-month-long Folkestone Triennial (see “Artist’s Buried Treasure Attracts Gold-Mad Hordes“). A spokeswoman for the artist told the BBC “It is up there for everyone to enjoy.”

On Monday a spokesman for Shepway District Council told the Folkstone Herald, “Council officers are on the scene putting some protection up for the artwork Banksy has done for Folkestone so that everyone will get an opportunity to take a look.” Kent News later reported that Council workers covered the work with a sealed, clear plastic sheet, a method that has been used to successfully preserve Banksy murals in other towns and cities.

Meanwhile, Jenny Hollingsbee, a cabinet member for communities told Kent News “This is a tremendous opportunity for the people of Folkestone to see a Banksy original. We are proud to be able to play a part in ensuring as many residents and visitors as possible will be able to appreciate the work. It is another reason to be proud of Folkestone.”


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