Banksy’s Latest Gorilla Mural Possibly Linked to Past Animal-Themed Artworks—Here’s Why

A new mural by Banksy at the London Zoo has garnered attention as some spectators believe it may provide insight into the artist's previous animal-themed creations.

The artwork, which Banksy shared on Instagram, features a gorilla helping other animals escape. It is the ninth in a series of animal-themed pieces that have appeared across London over the past nine days.

The mural, featuring a black stencil image, was placed on the zoo's security shutters. It depicts a gorilla freeing a seal and several birds, with the eyes of three other animals peering out from behind. This latest mural follows a sequence of similar artworks, including depictions of a mountain goat,elephants, monkeys, a wolf that was stolen, pelicans, a big cat, a school of fish, and a rhino.

Also Read: Banksy's Fourth Animal Artwork Stolen in South London- Witnesses Detail Dramatic Confrontation

Banksy's Animal-Themed Artworks Explained?

Banksy has not provided any explanation for the meaning behind these works, leaving room for public interpretation. However, the newest mural has led some to believe that the gorilla's actions may offer an explanation for the entire series of animal artworks.

Art News reported that the gorilla's act of liberation might symbolically connect the themes of freedom and escape present in all the murals. The locations of these murals have ranged from the sides of buildings to a fish and chip shop sign, a police box, and a subway station bridge.

But the gorilla could be part of his animal-themed artwork series to send a message about liberation.

However, the artist's support organization, Pest Control Office, has downplayed the significance of these images.

"Some recent theorising about the deeper significance of each new image has been way too involved," a spokesperson told The Guardian.