…at least that’s what Michel Boersma, Senior Vice President Family Entertainment & Theatre, Live Nation, said at the preview showing of the new Bansky Exhibit in Toronto. There are 80 original art works on display that have each been loaned by various collectors around the world, and according to Boersma, “it’s the most extensive and most prized collection to date out of all the other locations this exhibition has toured previously.”

And it seems to be true that Toronto is going gaga over this show, as 80% of the 50,000 available tickets have now been snapped up, and the the show must close on July 11th, 2018. To accommodate the demand, the exhibition hours have been extended, which allows for more visitors to attend. I would encourage you to purchase a ticket quickly, as once the word gets out, this is most definitely going to be a sell out show.

Upon entering, the first room is a depiction of images of Bansky at work painting outdoors, purposely blurred from the photos. There’s also shots inside his gallery where his screen prints are created. Then the exhibition continues into several other rooms, beginning with an early timeline collection from when he first arrived on the scene in 2002, with “Rude Copper”. There’s also his first copy of “Love is in the Air (Flower Thrower)”, which is replicated in two quite different forms later on in the exhibition. One canvas piece is reportedly one of the most expensive of all, with only 50 in existence, according to Boersma. 

New for the first time with this exhibition, is a multi-media collection of television screens and personal audio devices that allow guests to get as much information that they require about this elusive artist. A collection that includes everything – pop culture, politics, police, and pulp fiction – all created with purpose for the people. As well, Exhibition Curator, Steve Lazarides, who worked side-by-side with Bansky for more than a decade, has created a special five-hour long playlist to listen to while viewing the works. It’s also available on Spotify under  Steve Lazarides Art of Banksy Toronto.

The remaining rooms are divided in subject matter, such as Street Souvenirs, Politics, LA Prints, Barely Legal, Flag Wall, and finally, Parting Ways…just before you exit to the gift shop!

Remaining tickets can be purchased online , with a limited quantity of tickets also available on site at 213 Sterling Ave, starting on June 13 on a first come basis. Ticket price is $35.00 and there will be a total of 50,000 available, both timed and general admission.

The Art of Banksy
June 13 to July 11, 2018
213 Sterling Road, Toronto
www.banksyexhibit.com

On a side note, CBC News reported that “On any given day in Toronto, getting access to a Banksy is easy enough, and seeing them won’t cost more than TTC fare. Two stencils, generally attributed to him, are still visible downtown. There’s a scene featuring three figures contemplating the profundity of a blank wall; it’s preserved behind Plexiglas on the back patio of an Esplanade bar. And another, of a cop holding a muzzled dog balloon, was lifted from its original location, and is now displayed in a locked case, in the bowels of the downtown PATH system (One York Street).”

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment, and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors, and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats. Reach out - bryen@thebuzzmag.ca