The Guerrilla Gorilla: London Zoo Removes Banksy's Mural for Preservation

Banksy's latest street art series in London, featuring a diverse array of animals like a goat, elephants, monkeys, a wolf, a cat, pelicans, piranhas, a rhino, and a gorilla, has captivated the public and ignited debates about the fate of these pieces. The artworks have faced immediate challenges, with some being stolen, defaced, or relocated shortly after their creation. The most notable piece, a gorilla mural at London Zoo, has been removed for preservation, leading to speculation about whether the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) might auction it to support their conservation efforts, though the zoo has only hinted at plans to preserve this significant moment in its history. This rapid cycle of creation, removal, and uncertainty reflects Banksy's reputation for ephemeral art, yet the series has left a lasting impact, sparking ongoing discussions about the intersection of art, conservation, and the transient nature of creativity.