Banksy vs. Robbo round II

photo credit http://www.flickr.com/photos/nolionsinengland/4199803487/ 

The battle between Banksy and Robbo is still raging, with comments on both sides by old School Graffiti writers and the "new comers," the street artist, and almost everyone has a strong opinion, (see the numerous comments on flickr).  

Gaia has spoken his mind in an article featured in Juxtapoz and has some interesting thoughts.  He feels there is a love/hate relationship raging between graffiti artists and street artists, and as a street artist himself, states that while we lost the original Robbo piece, new light was shed on the historic tag and perhaps now people who never would have known who it was will now remember Robbo. 

For the full article click HERE.

Banksy vs. Robbo

(Banksy, December 20, 2009)

Many of you have probably seen the recent Banksy which appeared before Christmas in Camden.  The classic Banksy figure is seen pasting up a replica of a piece done in 1885 by Robbo, one of the "founding fathers" of the graffiti movement in the 80's.  Was this a nice homage to the work of Banksy's predecessors?  The old school graffiti writers think not.  This piece has stirred up some major controversy and some irate artists.

(original Robbo, 1985)

Robbo was quick to retaliate, apparently wading out into the canal on Christmas day to produce his own piece, a visual punch in the face aimed towards Banksy.  Although the result was a resurgence of Robbo supporters, that was clearly not what Banksy intended.   Banksy is known for calling out the major and minor evils he sees in the world, creating scenes where Tesco bags are put on pedestals and cops are in questionable situations.  To at Robbo to his repertoire is an unusual move, and obviously not well received.  What are your thoughts?

(Robbo, December 5, 2009)