This summer, Duggleby Stephenson presents a landmark moment in its auction calendar: the Modern Art Sale, taking place on Friday 11th July at our York saleroom. Bringing together bold, thought-provoking works by 20th and 21st-century artists, this sale captures the energy, experimentation and visual language of contemporary culture.
Leading the charge is a compelling edition by none other than Banksy, the world-renowned yet anonymous street artist whose works have transformed public walls, private collections and the international art market alike. His piece Toxic Mary, included in this sale, is both controversial and iconic - a modern parable captured in stark, satirical ink.
But this auction is about more than one name. We are currently inviting consignments of modern and contemporary works across all media, and we welcome entries from both recognised artists and emerging voices.
Banksy - The Artist Who Redefined the Rules
To understand why Banksy continues to command global attention and auction headlines, it’s worth looking at where he began. Thought to have emerged from Bristol’s underground graffiti scene in the early 1990s, Banksy’s earliest works bore all the hallmarks of guerilla street art: fast execution, high visibility and complete anonymity. His stencilled images quickly became his signature - both for their graphic simplicity and their power to deliver sharp social commentary in a single visual punch.
Whether mocking capitalism, critiquing war, or challenging political authority, Banksy’s work consistently places him at the heart of the most pressing conversations of our time. His art doesn’t ask permission - it makes a statement. And in doing so, he has succeeded in capturing the attention not only of the public but of institutions, celebrities, critics and collectors.
Today, Banksy’s authenticated prints and original works are sold through a handful of approved secondary market agents, with values continuing to soar. His most famous image, Girl with Balloon, became the subject of global headlines when it dramatically shredded itself seconds after being sold at auction - a stunt that only served to increase its value and underline Banksy’s ability to bend the rules of the art world to his own will.