Is street art losing its biggest mystery? For years, the name Banksy has fueled fantasies and theories. But this time, a thorough investigation might just unveil the mask.
And behind that mask, one name has been recurring insistently for nearly twenty years: Robin Gunningham. Born in Bristol in 1973, this presumed artist had already been mentioned in 2008 by the Mail on Sunday. But the investigation published on March 13 by Reuters goes further.
Journalists have cross-referenced testimonies, documents, and clues gathered over several years. Among them, a dozen close acquaintances interviewed have remained silent about Banksy’s identity but have let slip consistent details about his journey.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Archives, Pseudonyms, and Intriguing Clues
The heart of the investigation is based on American court records. It includes a handwritten confession signed by Robin Gunningham, who was arrested in Manhattan for vandalizing an advertising board. Interestingly, around the same time, Banksy supposedly stayed at a nearby hotel under the pseudonym “Robin Banks”.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Journalists have also traced paths all the way to Ukraine, where the artist had claimed several works in 2022. A certain « David Jones » born on the same day as Gunningham, reportedly passed through there according to immigration sources. Just another coincidence in an already dense web of clues.
Je suis mort : c’est tellement la merde dans le monde et dans tous les domaines qu’on apprend l’identité de Banksy et TOUT LE MONDE S’EN BRANLE. Y’a 10 ans ça aurait été l’info du siècle.
— Flonflon 🎶 (@benjaminvalbon) March 16, 2026
Unmasking: Revelation or Betrayal?
This publication sparks an age-old debate: Should we reveal Banksy's identity? His anonymity is an integral part of his work, fueling his mystique and freedom of expression.
Personnellement je ne veux pas savoir, sa fait partie de l'histoire du personnage, si on sait qui il est il redevient un artiste comme les autres.
— z3fk7sA5E3JVf8 (@z3fk7sA5E3JVf8) March 16, 2026
His lawyer has opposed the release of the investigation, citing invasion of privacy and a risk to his job. However, Reuters stands by this decision, pointing to the cultural and political significance of the artist in today's public debate.
Ptdrrr les profs d’anglais vont se tirer une balle en apprenant la nouvelle
— .🧩 (@Hofbat7) March 16, 2026
Between fascination for the mystery and the demand for transparency, one question remains: Can Banksy still be Banksy without his anonymity?