Utrecht, 24 March 2026 - From 2 April to 31 May 2026, the exhibition The Art of Banksy will be on display at the Beatrix Building of Royal Jaarbeurs . The exhibition showcases an extensive selection of original and certified works by the anonymous British artist Banksy. Some of these works have rarely or never before been shown publicly in continental Europe.
One of the eye-catchers is a special adaptation of the Mona Lisa, presented for the first time in continental Europe. At the time, the work was secretly bought directly from Banksy by actor Brad Pitt and was part of his private collection for many years. In 2022, Banksy got his hands on the work again and transformed it into a new, unique work of art. After being sold to a private collector, it is now being temporarily displayed to the public ahead of a planned auction.
Early version of iconic work
In addition to this first, the exhibition includes an early version of Flower Thrower (Love Is In The Air). This first version from 1997 was a gift Banksy gave to his then partner Leonie Laws at the time. The work will be shown in Utrecht, accompanied by video footage in which Laws looks back on its creation.
Insight into working method and context
The Art of Banksy also offers insight into the artist's creative process. Among other things, visitors will see hand-drawn sketches, design studies and original stencils that Banksy used in his street art. There is also a focus on the context in which his work was created, with contributions from British artist and printmaker Ben Eine, among others, who reflects in video clips on their collaboration and on some influential street art actions.
Cultural offer in a business environment
According to Herman Mantel, Chief Commercial Officer of Royal Jaarbeurs, the exhibition fits well with Jaarbeurs's broader positioning: "With The Art of Banksy, we are providing space in Utrecht for an internationally appealing exhibition that is substantively and culturally significant. Jaarbeurs is not only a place for business meetings and conferences, but also a stage where art, society and the public come together."
About the exhibition
The Art of Banksy shows the evolution of Banksy's work, from street art to international cultural phenomenon. The exhibition consists exclusively of original works, certified by Pest Control, Banksy's official authentication agency, or provided with verifiable documentation.
The exhibition can be visited from 2 April to 31 May 2026 at the Beatrix Building of Royal Jaarbeurs in Utrecht.
