Julien’s Auctions, a leader in entertainment and celebrity memorabilia, is set to offer an extraordinary collection titled “UNDER DURESS: THE BANKSY ARCHIVE OF STEVE LAZARIDES.” The auction, scheduled for Thursday, October 31, 2024, promises a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire over 150 works from the elusive street artist Banksy, curated by his longtime associate and gallerist Steve Lazarides.
The auction will take place at Julien’s Studios in Gardena, California, and will feature both live and online bidding. This unprecedented collection includes some of Banksy’s most renowned artworks, personal items, and early career memorabilia. Among the highlights are iconic pieces such as “Drill Rat,” “Love Is In The Air (aka Flower Thrower),” and “Girl With Balloon (aka Balloon Girl).”
Steve Lazarides has been closely associated with Banksy since the early days of his career, and this archive showcases their collaborative journey. Notable items include Banksy’s worn Puma “Turf War” sneakers, original concept sketches of his erotic art, and a collection of 15 burner phones that were used for communication between Lazarides and Banksy.
Darren Julien, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Julien’s Auctions, expressed excitement about the auction, stating, “This remarkable collection, kept by Steve Lazarides for decades, offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of Banksy’s career and legacy. For the first time, collectors and art enthusiasts have the chance to own some of the earliest and most defining works of the world’s most elusive and influential street artist.”
Among the auction’s standout pieces are:
- A hand-cut “Drill Rat” stencil, estimated to fetch between $100,000 and $200,000.
- An original “Hooded Figure” painting, with an estimate of $40,000 to $60,000.
- Banksy’s well-worn Puma “Turf War” sneakers, also estimated at $40,000 to $60,000.
- An original proof print of “Love Is In The Air,” with a similar estimate.
- A handwritten mission statement from Pictures on Walls (P.O.W.), detailing Banksy and Lazarides’ vision for affordable art, estimated at $10,000 to $20,000.
- A rare “Rude Snowman” Christmas card humorously signed “Raymond Briggs,” estimated at $30,000 to $50,000.
The auction represents a significant moment for both collectors and fans of contemporary art, as Banksy remains a pivotal figure in the art world. Known for his thought-provoking and often politically charged works, Banksy’s art has gained immense popularity, making this collection particularly valuable.
The auction is set to commence at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, and prospective bidders can participate in various ways, including online bidding via Julien’s Auctions website, by phone with an auction representative, in person, or through absentee bids.
For more information or to register for the auction, interested parties are encouraged to visit juliensauctions.com. This is a rare opportunity to acquire pieces of art history that encapsulate the essence of Banksy’s legacy and the creative spirit of street art.
