Is street art losing its greatest mystery? For years, the name Banksy has fueled fantasies and theories. But this time, a thorough investigation might just unveil the truth.
And behind this mask, one name has been frequently mentioned for nearly twenty years: Robin Gunningham. Born in Bristol in 1973, this presumed artist was already named in 2008 by the Mail on Sunday. However, the investigation published on March 13 by Reuters goes further.
Journalists have cross-referenced testimonies, documents, and clues collected over several years. Among them, a dozen close associates who were questioned, remaining silent about Banksy's identity, but leaving hints that align with his journey.
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Archives, Pseudonyms, and Mysterious Clues
At the heart of the investigation lies some American court archives. Here, we discover a handwritten confession signed by Robin Gunningham, who was arrested in Manhattan for vandalizing an advertising billboard. Interestingly, around the same time, Banksy is said to have stayed at a nearby hotel under the pseudonym “Robin Banks”.
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Journalists have also traced leads all the way to Ukraine, where the artist claimed several works in 2022. A certain « David Jones » born on the same day as Gunningham is said to have passed through there, according to migration sources. Just another coincidence in an already impressive array 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 reignites an age-old debate: should we reveal Banksy's identity? His anonymity is an integral part of his work, nurturing his aura 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 opposed the release of the investigation, citing a violation of privacy and a risk to his job. However, Reuters stands by this decision, highlighting 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 a fascination for mystery and a demand for transparency, one question remains: Can Banksy still be Banksy without his anonymity?