I may have just flatlined

About a month ago I discovered that Fall Out Boy remade Michael Jackson’s “Beat it” and a little piece of me died. Unfortunately, news of much greater concern and closeness to my heart have me questioning whether or not I need a defibrillator.

Since much of this blog discusses topics I find interesting or noteworthy, it was simply a matter of time before graffiti was brought to my happy little readers’ attention. Graffiti, the art form that I will defend to the death, has permeated throughout my conversations, my writings and two years of graduate research. I will not rant excessively in this post about my graffiti appreciation (there is plenty of room for that later), but I will comment on someone who has changed the message of graffiti on so many levels – British guerrilla artist Banksy.

Known to thousands around the world for his creative and controversial public art, disappointingly, his actual identity may no longer be hidden. It’s actually a bit daunting to write that statement; not a week ago I was discussing my hopes that his identity never be unveiled and POOF! the British publication Daily Mail reveals a picture and some facts identifying Banksy as 34 year old Robin Gunningham.

Banksy’s agent does not confirm nor deny the allegation, but with evidence beginning at Gunningham’s high school to Banksy’s 2003 Turf War art show, it’s not hard to believe that the Daily is onto something (especially since Gunningham is apparently MIA). Read the ARTICLE and decide for yourself.

As for me, I’m opting it’s not true. Hopefully, as the article’s closing briefly suggests:

Given Banksy’s long-standing success at covering his tracks, there is, of course, the possibility that the trail we have been following is a red herring, a complex set-up. But if it is, it must be the most elaborate such ruse ever concocted.