In a surprising turn of events, Banksy, the elusive street artist, has been identified as Robin Gunningham and has unveiled a new statue in Waterloo Place, London. This statue, which features a man marching off a plinth with his eyes covered by a flag, appeared on April 29, 2026.
Before this revelation, Banksy was known primarily for his politically-charged murals that have captivated audiences since the 1990s. His anonymity added intrigue to his work, allowing the art itself to take center stage. Fans and critics alike speculated about his identity but could only guess.
The decisive moment came when Banksy confirmed the statue through an Instagram post. The installation, crafted on a fake plinth at a prominent location in London, features the artist’s signature scrawled at its base. This marks an important shift in how the public perceives Banksy—no longer just an anonymous figure but now an identifiable artist creating significant pieces of public art.
The response from local authorities has been overwhelmingly positive. A spokesperson from Westminster City Council stated, “We welcome Banksy’s latest sculpture in Westminster, which makes a striking addition to the city’s vibrant public art scene.” Their commitment to keeping the statue accessible for public viewing highlights the importance of such works in urban environments.
As Gunningham steps into the light, he reflects on the transition: “There was a bit of a gap.” This comment suggests that while he enjoyed the mystery surrounding his work, there is also excitement about engaging with audiences more directly.
The statue not only enhances London’s rich tapestry of street art but also prompts discussions about the role of anonymity in artistic expression. As more people visit Waterloo Place to see this latest addition to London’s skyline, it will be interesting to observe how this impacts perceptions of street art and its creators.
With this new chapter unfolding for Banksy as Robin Gunningham, one thing is clear: his influence on public art will continue to resonate within communities across London and beyond.
