Banksy is arguably the world’s most famous street artist. He is known for his thought-provoking stencils and graffiti that feature social commentary and satire. But what most people don’t know is that Bansky also created a number of oil paintings over the course of his career. Now, one of them is being auctioned off by Blink 182 singer and bassist Mark Hoppus.
The painting, titled “Crude Oil (Vettriano),” will be offered for sale through auction house Sotheby’s on March 4 as part of a modern and contemporary art event that will also feature works of Pablo Picasso and Roy Lichtenstein. The piece, which has been in Hoppus’ collection for more than a decade, is expected to fetch a price of $6 million.
“We loved this painting since the moment we saw it. Unmistakably Banksy, but different. We bought it because we loved it. It’s borne witness to our family over these past dozen years,” Hoppus said in a statement. “This painting has meant so much to us and been such an amazing part of our lives, and now I’m excited for it to be out there in the world.”
“Crude Oil (Vettriano)” was first presented at Banksy’s exhibition show Crude Oils: A Gallery of Remixed Masterpieces, Vandalism and Vermin in 2005. The painting is based on Jack Vettriano’s artwork “The Singing Butler” and features Banksy’s signature take on current issues. It depicts a couple dancing while a butler holds an umbrella over them like in the original but with the addition of two men in hazard suits disposing of toxic waste in the background.
