Banksy Universe Manila is for the “greater population” but charges Php 550 fee

The “Banksy Universe” exhibit might sound cool, but let’s dig a little deeper. Banksy, the mystery street artist who throws shade at the big guys with his stencils, seemed like a perfect fit. However, as the initial thrill subsided, we began to dissect the exhibit’s true purpose and its alignment with the rebellious spirit of Banksy’s art.

Street Art for All, Not a Pricey Ticket

Banksy’s whole thing is making art accessible to everyone. He chooses public walls, not fancy museums. So, a 550-peso price tag for this exhibit? Yeah, that clashes big time with his message. This high cost leaves out a huge chunk of Manila, which defeats the whole purpose, right?

“Our target market isn’t an elitist Manila. It is the greater population of Manila.”
– Chris Johnson, Banksy Universe member and spokesperson (via GMA News Online)

Sticking the exhibit in the posh digs of the Metropolitan Museum adds another layer of confusion. This fancy spot feels way off from the raw energy and anti-establishment vibe Banksy is known for. Imagine his stencils in a public park or a community center – that would spark conversations with everyday people, just like Banksy would want.

• The Php 550 entrance fee instantly contradicts the accessibility Banksy champions. For a significant portion of Manila’s population, this cost represents a barrier, effectively excluding them from experiencing the very message the art aims to convey.
• The Metropolitan Museum in BGC‘s location further widens the gap between the exhibit and Banksy’s artistic spirit. The museum’s high-end location and curated atmosphere feel at odds with the raw, street-born energy of Banksy’s work. Wouldn’t a public space, perhaps a community center or an open-air venue, be a more fitting platform?
• The non-profit status of the organizers, while commendable, doesn’t entirely address the issue of accessibility. Surely, alternative, low-cost exhibition methods could have been explored to stay true to Banksy’s spirit of inclusivity.

Why not celebrate Manila’s own artistic voice?

This exhibit is a missed opportunity on multiple levels. Firstly, it fails to introduce the city’s vibrant street art scene to a wider audience. Secondly, it doesn’t engage with the social and political realities of Manila in a meaningful way, something Banksy himself would likely champion.

• Filipino street artists could be invited to reinterpret Banksy’s themes on public walls throughout the city. This would create a free, accessible art experience that aligns with Banksy’s principles while showcasing the city’s vibrant talent.
• An abandoned building or a public park could be transformed into a temporary Banksy-inspired space. Local artists could contribute works that address issues relevant to Manila, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of community ownership.

Manila’s street art scene is electrifying. The “Banksy Universe” exhibit, despite its goals, misses the mark. Let’s strive for something real, something that empowers local voices, makes art accessible, and meaningful conversations about what matters most to Manileños.

Who is Banksy?

Banksy popped onto the scene in the late 1990s from Bristol, U.K. Think dark alleys, not fancy galleries. He uses stencils and spray paint to create thought-provoking messages on public walls and buildings—anywhere he can get his message across.

His art tackles social issues head-on: war, consumerism, wealth inequality – you name it. He’s like a social commentator with a can of paint, poking fun at the big guys and making us question the status quo. But Banksy’s not all seriousness – he throws in humor and satire to keep things spicy.

The coolest part? His art is free for everyone to see. There are no fancy museums or hefty admission fees—just raw talent on display. Banksy is a champion of accessibility, making art a part of everyday life, not something locked away for the privileged few.