Banksy Captured: the photo book of the artist by Steve Lazarides

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Unpublished photographs of the artist’s work make up Banksy Captured by Steve Lazarides, who worked with him for over a decade as his agent

Steve Lazarides, Banksy’s gallerist, photographer and former manager, launched Banksy Captured. The book reveals photographs of the British artist who he represented for over ten years. In it, he shows unpublished images of the artist creating his artworks, keeping his identity hidden, as he has till now.

The book’s exclusive was given to the British newspaper The Mirror on October 31. This publication assumes a new perspective on the life and work of the controversial artist.

The story between Lazarides and Banksy began sometime in 1997 when he began to photograph the artist. Initially, it was a commission, but they continued working for eleven years. In addition to being his photographer, he also became his gallerist and manager.

Lazarides photographed the artist during his creation process. That’s why you can see him “hands-on” although always with his back to the camera or covering his face.

And although we won’t be able to see the artist’s face just yet (or ever!), the images are a “sincere and intimate” vision of Banksy. Furthermore, it has even greater value by being immortalized by a person so close to him that shares his behind the scenes perspective.

“We broke every possible rule…” Lazarides on his relationship with Banksy

The publishing of the book comes after the former agent announced that, after 15 years, he would retire from the gallery world. If you missed that info, read about it here. He stated that, at some point, he wanted to promote a subculture that no longer exists. In fact, he stated that he hates the art world, at least referring to the current art situation.

On the other hand, Steve shared with The Mirror: “I worked with him for 11 glorious years. During that time we broke all the possible rules in the rule book… “ He also rejoiced in the times they shared, but mentioned it’s now time to start “the next adventure.” Referring to projects as a photographer.

Finally, the 250 pages in the book take us on a journey through the artist’s history. It’s “more than a decade of creativity and subversion.”

It is worth mentioning that Lazarides will put some limited edition prints for sale and will do so at an affordable price. That way he’ll try to get art to reach any audience.

This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)