In the world of graffiti, the name 'Banksy' carries a lot of weight. Arguably the most controversial street artist of our time, Banksy has slowly created a subculture completely devoted to his artwork. For the past 20 years, his paintings have popped up in cities all over the world, with a large concentration in London and San Francisco. However, his identity and physical appearance remain completely unknown to the public making his persona much more intriguing.

Banksy's work includes various powerful, controversial images that spark conversation and interest to the ones who stumble across it on the sidewalks, streets and alley corners. He uses multiple methods to convey his messages; spray-painted stencils being his most popular form. The images he paints are often satirical and spread messages about art, philosophy, and politics.

In the early 2000s, art collectors and museum curators were raving over Banksy's images in London and Palestine. His painted images began to be removed from buildings before they could be painted over by the city and were then sold for record-breaking prices in art auctions like Sotheby's and Bonham's of London, the highest selling piece being over $1 million.

Dozens of Banksy pieces have been covered or removed from the sides of buildings, making most of his art visible for a limited time.The image of the rat, below, was removed from the side of a building in San Francisco by Brian Greif, whose aim was to place the image in a museum and allow the public to continue viewing the piece for free.

So, why should we appreciate or even care about the artwork Banksy creates? If you asked his fans and followers, they could probably give you endless reasons. Simply put, he paints messages and images conveying ideas and truths that many of us are afraid to admit ourselves.

Rather than using social media platforms as an outlet, he shows the public what he is witnessing and (perhaps) what he thinks about it through large images that everyone can see. His paintings are meaningful and thought-provoking; some may make you laugh and others may offend you but the detail and style of each can be appreciated by everyone.

Although most critics would claim that Banksy is just a vandal and that his work is only enjoyable in the eyes of ignorance, his fame is undeniable. Nearly every piece he's created is of some controversy and perhaps that is the secret behind his great success.

To indulge in more of Banksy's artwork, visit http://www.streetartutopia.com/?p=14015.