Banksy is a pseudonymous England-based street artist, political activist, and film director. He is widely regarded as one of the most significant and innovative artists of the contemporary era. His works of art, which often incorporate social and political commentary, have appeared on streets, walls, and bridges in cities throughout the world. Banksy's true identity remains a mystery, but his work has achieved international recognition and has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide. He first gained attention in the late 1990s for his graffiti in Bristol, England, where he was part of a graffiti crew called DryBreadZ. Banksy's work is characterized by its dark humor, satirical wit, and subversive messages. Banksy's artwork often incorporates stenciling techniques, allowing him to create highly detailed images quickly and easily. His work frequently comments on social and political issues, such as consumerism, capitalism, war, and government surveillance. Banksy's art has also been known to critique the art world itself, often questioning the value and authenticity of art in contemporary society. One of Banksy's most famous works is "Girl with Balloon," a stencil image of a young girl reaching for a heart-shaped balloon. The work gained widespread attention after it was featured in Banksy's "Better Out Than In" residency in New York City in 2013. In 2018, a version of the artwork was sold at auction for $1.4 million, but as soon as the gavel hit, the artwork self-destructed by a shredder built into the frame. Banksy has also made numerous films, including the documentary "Exit Through the Gift Shop," which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2010. The film tells the story of Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant in Los Angeles who becomes obsessed with street art and eventually meets Banksy. The film has been praised for its satirical take on the art world and has become a cult classic. In recent years, Banksy has continued to create thought-provoking works of art, often addressing issues such as immigration, climate change, and the refugee crisis. His art continues to captivate audiences around the world, and his identity remains a mystery, adding to the intrigue and mystique surrounding his work.