Visual arts “I’m not a Banksy” – Welsh politician claimed to be world-famous street artist decides to resign

Welsh jury William Gannon has found himself in a special situation.

Gannonia is a stubbornly claimed world-famous street artist Banksy.

The true identity of Banksy, known for his politically assertive works, is unknown.

On social media and via email, the rumor grew so great that Gannon, who was elected to Pembroke Dock City Council in early May, ended up resigning. The case is reported, among other things The Telegraph and The Guardian.

Gannon, who denies being Banksy, has described the accusations and their consequences as an existential crisis.

“It’s completely ridiculous, but it also has its malevolent side. I’m the target of a joke, ”Gannon told The Telegraph.

He even started using a pin that reads “I’m not Banksy”.

“When I tell people I’m not Banksy, one can read from their gaze,‘ That’s exactly what Banksy would say, ’” Gannon says in an interview with The Guardian.

He accuses another council candidate of rumors that began in January. He believes the intention has been to make it harder for him to work as a city councilor.

According to Gannon, the situation escalated when vandals made graffiti on parks, benches and front doors in the nearby town of Pembroke. Gannon feared he would be held responsible for the hard work.

Gannon eventually decided that his political position was unsustainable. He cites the reputation damage caused to the city by rumors as the reason for his resignation.

In Gannon, who moved to Pembroke Dock in 2013, admits certain similarities with Banksy, who originally worked in Bristol. Gannon is a visual artist herself, and says she has spent “living a wild life living in vans and painting walls”.

“Everything Banksy did was about ten years earlier. That’s why the claims don’t really matter, ”58-year-old Gannon tells The Guardian.

Nonetheless, Gannon confesses to being an admirer of Banksy, who he calls a “hero”.