How Banksys Shredded Artwork Will Be Stored and Displayed
If I had to guess, a larger custom case will be built to enclose the entire piece, extending down below the remaining strips of the once-whole artwork. The motor for the shredder and the power source will likely be disabled to prevent any further 'improvement.' This ensures the integrity of the work as a unique and meaningful expression by Banksy.
The Concept of the Artwork
The work of art is not just the frame or the shredded remnants, but the entirety: the frame, the shredder, the partially shredded picture, and everything together. It's a multifaceted piece that combines performance, sculpture, and painting. This unique artistic composition makes the whole greater than the sum of its parts, turning a simple piece of art into a powerful statement on the nature of art and the state of society.
Preservation and Exhibitation
While the original was not under glass, exhibiting such a piece poses unique challenges. Banksy's 'Love is in the Bin' was previously framed and exposed, but now this entire entity is considered a new work of art. The buyer, after a week of negotiations at an auction, will own the artwork, which will be exhibited at Sotheby’s New Bond Street galleries on October 13th and 14th. This move signals both the commercial and cultural significance of this piece.
Commercial and Cultural Significance
The shift from the original presentation to the new installation underscores the dual nature of Banksy's work. On one hand, it serves as a reminder of the initial act of defacement and deletion, encapsulated in the partially shredded frame. On the other hand, the new display context transforms it into a powerful statement on the fragility and impermanence of art and culture. This work serves as a commentary on the volatility of art, its preservation, and the authenticity of its presentation.
By renaming the artwork 'Love is in the Bin,' Banksy adds a layer of irony and critique. The title not only refers to the physical state of the artwork but also to the socio-political implications of the work. This name suggests a deeper message about the commercial and cultural contexts within which art is presented and consumed. The auction and subsequent exhibition highlight the tension between art as a commodity and art as a force for change.
Conclusion
The presentation of Banksy's 'Love is in the Bin' represents a fascinating blend of preservation, performance, and commentary. The transformation from a partially shredded work to a fully enclosed, displayed piece speaks to the transformative power of art. It not only retains the original intent but elevates it to a new level of discussion and reflection. This unique approach to handling and exhibiting art reflects the ongoing dialogue between the artist, the gallery, and the audience.
Banksy's 'Love is in the Bin' is a prime example of how art can be both intentionally destroyed and lovingly preserved, turning a simple act of vandalism into a complex and meaningful artwork. The careful handling and display of this piece in the future will preserve its historical and cultural significance, ensuring that future generations can continue to reflect on its profound message.