A new statue by Banksy has appeared on Waterloo Place in central London, confirmed by the artist himself on April 30, 2026. The statue depicts a suited man carrying a large flag that covers his face, which some observers interpret as a commentary on authority and anonymity.
Banksy’s identity has been the subject of much speculation and investigation. The statue’s plinth features Banksy’s signature etched into it, reinforcing his claim to the work. Initial reports surfaced on April 29, indicating that the piece reflects the bronze and granite monuments nearby, including the Duke of York Column and tributes to Florence Nightingale.
Over the past two years, Banksy has become increasingly active in London. In summer 2024, he created a series of stencilled animal silhouettes across various locations, while an unauthorised mural at the Royal Courts of Justice in September 2025 further demonstrated his penchant for provocative street art. Some sources say this latest work may be seen as a response to ongoing debates surrounding public art and its place within urban spaces.
Initial reactions include:
A commentator noted, “I love that he appears when enough time has passed to forget, and arrives with full force unnoticed.” and Another remarked, “As a long-time Banksy collector, this one really hits. Big monument energy, but the idea is brutally simple: a suited figure blinded by its own flag. Classic Banksy. Quiet at first, then impossible to unsee.”.
The statue’s placement in such a prominent location—near various government buildings and foreign embassies—has sparked further discussions regarding its intended message. Observers are now considering what this development means for future street art initiatives and whether it will influence local regulations concerning public installations.