The Mystery of Banksy, a Street Art Artist MULHEIM an der Ruhr

The exhibition showcased more than 150 works under the motto 'Copyright is for losers'; these tributes and the displayed artworks are not authorized by the artist due to his anonymous status.

However, he lost the trademark rights to his famous 'Flower Thrower' image to a greeting card company because of his anonymity and stance against copyright. The image depicts a masked man throwing a bouquet instead of a hand grenade.

Banksy, born in Bristol and having moved to London in the late 90s, drew attention to himself in October 2013 in New York by announcing that he would create a new work each day in the metropolis.

For example, 'You Complete Me' on October 3, 2013

...or on October 11, the livestock transporter with the lamenting stuffed animals.

A political piece also titled 'Pillow Fight'. An Israeli border policeman and a Palestinian are engaged in a pillow fight; a conflict does not always have to be resolved using heavy artillery.

The British monarch is depicted with the face of a monkey. 'The highest position in British society is not a reward for talent or hard work, but is simply granted by birthright.' Banksy

'Pissing Guard' here demonstrates the hypocrisy of the authorities and the royal household. The guards are known for not being allowed to move during their duty. Therefore, the irony of depicting a guard in this position. The same applies to the guards in front of the Lenin mausoleum.

'Kissing Coppers' This work celebrates the tolerance of the 60s towards homosexuals in Brighton.

'Golf Sale' inspired by the Tiananmen Massacre in Beijing 1989, where a man stands in front of tanks, a sign of the non-violent movement in the 80s, Banksy questions the upper class with a golf sale sign.

'Laugh Now' Just laugh, one day we will have the say! Though they are seen as our ancestors, monkeys are used as test animals, they are exhibited in zoos, their hands are prepared as ashtrays.

My conclusion: An artist who thoughtfully and pointedly highlights injustices through his works. He has a desire to go public while remaining personally invisible. This makes him less vulnerable and thus free to express his creative ideas. This exhibition, supported by a video documentary, is a must-see; it provokes thought and curiosity.