Inside the arrest that led to Banksy’s possible unmasking
For 26 years, a name sat in a public record. Then someone found it.
From The Times
March 25, 2026

For decades, Banksy’s identity has captivated the art world nearly as much as his work. In 2000, the police nabbed a street artist for trying to deface a billboard.

A person sitting on a bench in a museum looks at a large image of a masked man about to throw bouquet of flowers that he is holding in his right hand.

Hiroko Masuike/The New York Times

Then, someone found the arrest record and connected the dots.

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