'Barcode Leopard' by Banksy (after), 2020
From the unauthorized Banksy exhibit at Modern Contemporary Museum (MOCO), Amsterdam, 2020.
Based on Banksy's 'Barcode Leopard', 2004.
8 x 31 Inches
Screen print on 7-ply Canadian Maple hardwood skate deck.
Limited Edition (Sold Out).
New in shrink wrap with Sk8 of the Art COA.

*Note: Skate Deck wall hangers sold separately.

ABOUT THE ART

Barcode, also known as Barcode Leopard, shows a majestic leopard in the foreground who just escaped from his cage, resembling a barcode on wheels. At first sight, this print is a clear criticism on the way humans use animals for their own entertainment, having created zoos or sea-parks. The barcode serves as a symbol of consumerism and capitalism. Indeed, it was introduced in the 1970’s to standardize consumer’s products, in order to make people purchase more in a faster and more efficient manner. The leopard is demonstrating the ability we all have to free ourselves from the power of consumerism.

Furthermore, another interpretation links the choice of the leopard and the barcode by their unique character. Just as all leopards have a unique pattern of spots, all barcodes have unique combinations too. The big cat embodies the diversity of form, whereas the notion of consumerism suggested through the image of the barcode evokes homogeneity.

Barcode first appeared on the side of a house on Pembroke Road in Bristol. The stencil was quickly removed from the wall but reappeared a few years after on the occasion of an exhibit in Somerset. Banksy also realized many originals with this iconic stencil.