Collector shares Banksy artwork with Downham Market students

Downham Market Academy students had the rare opportunity to see a unique piece of Banksy’s artwork in person when it was loaned to the school by a local art collector.

One of the elusive artist’s most iconic pieces, The Grappling Hook, was first displayed at Banksy’s Walled Off Hotel in 2017.

The piece, which has an estimated value of £250,000, was loaned by the collector, who also gave a specialist careers talk about a career in the arts industry.

Mark Eastwood, senior deputy headteacher, said: “It is not every day you get to see a modern masterpiece close-up!

“We have plenty of passionate artists among our student community so it was fantastic to have this rare opportunity to learn about Banksy’s unique style from an expert, while also experiencing a Banksy piece first hand. We thank the collector for sharing their art with us.”

Year 10 and 11 students enjoyed the unique insights from the local collector on their experiences and advice for entering the arts industry.

The Grappling Hook is a crucifix with three steel grapples attached to a piece of knotted rope and was created as a “powerful statement” on the political and religious struggles in the West Bank, Bethlehem where Banksy’s Walled Off Hotel is situated. Last year, the piece was exhibited in Ely Cathedral by the same private collector.

Banksy is an anonymous street artist political activist and film director from Bristol who is well known for his distinctive and satirical style.