Banksy’s
Pulp Fiction is a satirical reimagining of an iconic scene from Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 cult classic film. The artwork features two instantly recognisable figures – Jules Winnfield (played by Samuel L. Jackson) and Vincent Vega (played by John Travolta) – who, in the original film still, are seen pointing handguns.However, in Banksy’s subversive twist, their weapons have been replaced with bright yellow bananas. This absurd and unexpected swap challenges the viewer’s perception, immediately injecting humour and irony into the piece.The artwork uses a bold, high-contrast black and white stencil style, staying true to Banksy’s signature aesthetic. The monochrome rendering of the figures maintains their cinematic seriousness, while the bananas – rendered in vibrant yellow – stand out sharply, drawing attention to the artwork’s surreal and playful nature.The piece carries a playful yet provocative mood. While it initially elicits amusement due to the absurdity of the banana substitution, it also raises deeper questions about the glorification of violence in pop culture.By replacing guns with fruit, Banksy critiques the normalisation of cinematic violence, transforming an aggressive moment into one of comedic harmlessness. The bananas, often associated with slapstick humour, introduce an element of farce, making the audience reconsider the weight of the original imagery.Furthermore, the artwork aligns with Banksy’s broader approach to social and political commentary, often using satire to challenge authority, question media influences, and provoke thought about contemporary issues.Executed as a screen print on paper, the artwork reflects Banksy’s well-known stencil-based street art style. The stark contrast between black and white enhances the recognisability of the figures, reinforcing the cinematic reference. The choice of flat, clean lines and a minimalist colour palette ensures that the bold concept remains the focal point.The addition of the artist’s name, “BANKSY,” in the bottom right corner authenticates the work as part of his recognised artistic catalogue. The limited use of colour – where only the bananas are bright yellow – creates a visual and conceptual contrast, drawing the viewer’s eye immediately to the subversive element of the piece.
Pulp Fiction (2004) remains one of Banksy’s most famous and widely recognised works. Originally appearing as a mural in central London, near Old Street Tube Station, it was later removed but became an enduring image within contemporary street art and pop culture. The piece has since been widely reproduced and sought after by collectors, further cementing its status as an iconic example of Banksy’s ability to blend humour, rebellion, and cultural critique into striking visual statements.By transforming a moment of cinematic violence into one of absurdity, Banksy continues his tradition of challenging the status quo, using art as a means to question the narratives that shape our perceptions of society.
Provenance:
Pulp Fiction (2004) is an iconic screen print on paper by Banksy, one of the most influential street artists of contemporary times.
The artwork originates from Banksy’s early 2000s output and was released as an official limited edition print by Pictures on Walls (POW), the now-defunct print house that distributed much of Banksy’s early work.
Collectors and institutions consider authenticated POW prints as significant works from this period, and each print comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) issued either by Pest Control (Banksy’s official authentication body) or the original POW provenance.
Pulp Fiction first appeared as a street mural in central London, near Old Street Tube Station. The mural gained widespread recognition before being controversially painted over by Transport for London (TfL). Despite its removal, the image had already achieved cultural significance, leading to its reproduction in print form.
Exhibited:
Banksy’s Pulp Fiction has been displayed in several major exhibitions that explore the evolution of street art and contemporary political commentary. Notable exhibitions featuring Pulp Fiction or referencing its cultural impact include:
- “Banksy vs Bristol Museum” (2009) – Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, UK
- “Art in the Streets” (2011) – The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Los Angeles
- “The Art of Banksy” (multiple touring exhibitions) – Various global locations
- Urban Art Auctions & Gallery Showings – Featured regularly in prominent auction houses such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Bonhams, where Banksy’s works have gained significant value and collector interest
The Pulp Fiction print has been a highly sought-after collector’s piece, regularly appearing in private and public art sales.
Literature:
Banksy’s Pulp Fiction has been widely referenced in art books, auction catalogues, and scholarly discussions about contemporary street art. Notable publications featuring the work include:
- Banksy: Wall and Piece (2005) – The definitive collection of Banksy’s work, documenting many of his most famous murals and prints, including Pulp Fiction.
- Banksy: You Are an Acceptable Level of Threat (2012, updated editions) – A comprehensive look at Banksy’s career, with detailed references to his early street murals and limited edition prints.
- Street Art: The Graffiti Revolution (Cedar Lewisohn, 2008) – Discusses Banksy’s influence on modern street art and includes references to Pulp Fiction as an example of his satirical approach to pop culture.
- Urban Art Auction Catalogues – Major auction houses such as Sotheby’s and Bonhams frequently list Pulp Fiction as a key highlight in Banksy retrospectives and sales.
