A mysterious statue that appeared overnight in central London has now been confirmed as Banksy’s latest work. The statue was installed on April 29, 2026, in Waterloo Place. It depicts a suited man blinded by a flag covering his face.
Banksy confirmed the statue is his work via an Instagram post. The signature is etched into its plinth, solidifying its authenticity. City officials have added barricades to protect the statue while keeping it accessible to the public.
The statue reflects the bronze and granite monuments nearby, such as the Duke of York Column and the Guards Crimean War memorial. This installation aligns with Banksy’s recent trend of urban installations and public art in London.
Banksy has gained global recognition for his graffiti and mural work since the early 1990s. He has been increasingly active in London over the last two years. In March 2026, an investigation identified Banksy as Robin Gunningham, who later changed his name to David Jones.
Observers noted that this piece resonates deeply with fans of Banksy’s art. One commentator remarked, “Big monument energy, but the idea is brutally simple: a suited figure blinded by its own flag. Classic Banksy.” Another added, “I love that he appears when enough time has passed to forget, and arrives with full force unnoticed.”
Despite mixed reactions—one unidentified man stated simply, “No, I don’t like it”—the statue’s presence is already stirring conversation about Banksy’s identity and artistic intent.
While we have taken initial steps to protect the statue, it will remain accessible for the public to view and enjoy.
