Banksy encourages shoplifters to ‘help themselves’

BRITISH painter Banksy has encouraged people to visit fashion retailer Guess’ flagship Regent Street store and shoplift clothes featuring his artwork, after accusing the American brand of stealing his work.

Guess’ flagship Regent Street store recently launched a Guess x Brandalised project capsule in mid-November featuring some of his work on the clothing — including the Flower rower, Balloon Girl and Follow Your Dreams.

However, the anonymous street artist has claimed that Guess did not ask for permission to use his works.

After being called out, Guess closed their store temporarily, as well as covering up the window display at the front of the store and placed security outside.

In a recent post on his Instagram page, for which he has 11,8 million followers, he wrote: “Attention all shoplifters. Please go to Guess on Regent Street. “ey’ve helped themselves to my artwork without asking, how can it be wrong for you to do the same to their clothes?” he continued.

In response, legendary drum ‘n’ bass artist and Metalheadz’s owner Goldie wrote: “go clear the gaffe out kids lol.”

In a press statement about the collection, the US brand said: “Using iconic motifs from Banksy’s graffiti, this collection combines the artist’s graffiti with Guess attitude.” — Mixmag.