UPDATED 4/25/24, 11:47 a.m. GMT+8: It appears that the “Banksy Universe” social post on the Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) Facebook account was taken down. While it still exists on the Instagram accounts of The Metropolitan Museum of Manila and the “Banksy Universe,” the Taguig district has yet to issue a comment on its removal.
While Banksy is known for keeping his installations under wraps, a netizen contacted his official handler, Pest Control, regarding the Met exhibit’s legitimacy following the post’s release. Pest Control responded, mentioning that the “Banksy Universe is not authorized or endorsed by the artist Banksy.”
“We have no further details about it, or its contents,” they continued.
See original story below.
England-based street artist Banksy may appear in the Philippines through the “Banksy Universe” installation at BGC’s Met in 2024. As of writing, no specifics were disclosed apart from teasers on BGC, Met, and the exhibit’s official Instagram pages.
Instagram: @metmuseummanila and @banksyuniverse
According to the bio of the “Banksy Universe,” the publicly accessible display showcases “a journey into the captivating universe of one of the most revolutionary artists of our time.” The account currently features a series of photos of a young girl—one of the artist’s most iconic characters, reaching for a heart-shaped balloon with the text: “Banksy Universe, Manila 2024. Spraying soon…”
As the internet anticipates a Banksy sighting in Manila, several remained skeptical about the show’s execution. According to the artist’s “sole point of contact,” Pest Control, Banksy is “not involved or associated” with any exhibits, apart from Amsterdam’s Moco Museum, which houses permanent Banksy pieces. According to GMA News Online, the Met is “scheduled to release more details in the next two weeks” as the Banksy Universe has “not replied” as of publishing.
Oh boy, the art world's favorite anonymous prankster is at it again! 😮🎨 This time, rumors are swirling that Banksy might be setting his sights on the Philippines, as teased by the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
— ParkHealthOER (@ParkHealthOER) April 22, 2024
via Bonifacio Global City on Facebook
via Bonifacio Global City on Facebook
via Bonifacio Global City on Facebook
