Banksy, the elusive and provocative street artist, has captivated audiences worldwide with his striking social and political commentary. Among his most notable works, "Devolved Parliament" stands out as a powerful critique of the British political system. This artwork, which replaces MPs in the House of Commons with chimpanzees, is a stark and evocative representation of political satire, questioning the effectiveness and integrity of modern governance.
The Artwork: "Devolved Parliament"
"Devolved Parliament" presents a surreal scene: the historic House of Commons, typically bustling with politicians, is instead filled with chimpanzees. These primates, positioned on both the Government and opposition benches, as well as in the public gallery, embody chaos and disorder. The painting's realistic style juxtaposed with its absurd subject matter amplifies the satirical message, suggesting that the political system has devolved into primal, animalistic behaviour. The term "devolved" implies a regression rather than progress, critiquing the state of political discourse and decision-making.
Banksy's Style and Symbolism
Banksy is renowned for his distinctive style, characterised by bold imagery and sharp social commentary. In "Devolved Parliament," the use of chimpanzees as stand-ins for politicians is a masterstroke of irony. It underscores the perceived ineptitude and absurdity within the political sphere. The grand scale of the painting, measuring 13 feet (4 metres) long, commands attention and lends gravity to the satirical elements. By grounding this absurdity in a familiar, dignified setting, Banksy effectively highlights the absurdities and dysfunctions he sees in contemporary politics.
The 2009 Exhibition: "Banksy vs Bristol Museum"
In the summer of 2009, the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery was transformed by the groundbreaking exhibition "Banksy vs Bristol Museum." This exhibit showcased Banksy's works in an unconventional setting, blending his pieces with the museum's historic collections. Visitors were treated to an array of unexpected and thought-provoking displays, such as fishfingers swimming in a goldfish bowl and hot-dogs presented as sculptures. The main entrance was dramatically altered, featuring a burnt-out ice-cream van with a melting giant ice-cream on its roof, emitting an eerie soundtrack. Among these installations, "Devolved Parliament" was a standout, capturing the attention and imagination of audiences.
Record-Breaking Auction at Sotheby's
"Devolved Parliament" made headlines again in October 2019 when it was sold at a Sotheby's auction for a record-breaking £9,879,500 (approximately £12.2 million). This sale far exceeded its estimated price of £1.5 million to £2 million, reflecting the significant impact and value of Banksy's work. This sale came a year after another notable Banksy event, where his "Girl with Balloon" shredded itself immediately after being sold at auction.
Prints and Editions: "Monkey Parliament"
In addition to the original painting, Banksy released an offset lithograph titled "Monkey Parliament" during the 2009 Bristol exhibition. This poster, featuring the same image of chimpanzees in the House of Commons, has become a sought-after piece among collectors. The print's distribution during the "Banksy vs Bristol Museum" show further solidified the artwork's iconic status.
Banksy's "Devolved Parliament" is more than just a painting; it is a profound social commentary on the nature of political power and governance. Through his depiction of chimpanzees in the House of Commons, Banksy challenges viewers to reflect on the state of democracy and the behaviour of those in power. The artwork's success, both in public exhibitions and at auction, underscores its powerful impact and the continued relevance of Banksy's message. As a master of political satire, Banksy uses his art to provoke thought, spark dialogue, and inspire change, making "Devolved Parliament" a timeless piece in the world of contemporary art.
