A new sculpture by Banksy appeared in central London early Wednesday, April 30, 2026. The statue humorously depicts a man striding off a plinth, blinded by a flag.
The statue was erected on a traffic island in Waterloo Place, near Buckingham Palace. This location is notable for its proximity to existing statues of King Edward VII and Florence Nightingale.
Banksy confirmed the statue is his work through a humorous video on Instagram. The artwork is made of resin or fibreglass, showcasing Banksy’s unique style.
As of midday, Westminster City Council stated they would not remove the statue. They welcomed it as part of the public art scene in London.
Banksy is primarily known for his street art rather than sculptures. He has never publicly revealed his identity, adding to the intrigue surrounding his works.
Historically, Banksy’s creations began appearing in the early 1990s in Bristol, England. His artworks have sold for millions of dollars at auction, highlighting their cultural significance.
One observer noted, “It’s really clever. It captures a very precise moment in time… where the flag’s kind of blinding this puffed up, besuited leader who’s about to step off a precipice and look very silly indeed.” This comment reflects the satirical nature of the piece.
The unveiling of this statue continues Banksy’s tradition of challenging societal norms through public art. It invites viewers to reconsider the role and representation of leaders in contemporary society.