The iconic shredding artwork by Banksy was created at an auction.

In October 2018, the anonymous British urban artist Banksy made a sensational move at Sotheby's, pulling off a true art coup. The piece, known at the time as 'Girl With Balloon', was the last highlight of the prestigious evening auction at Sotheby's in London, fetching over £1,000,000. However, immediately after the gavel fell, an unforeseen event caused a stir: a siren sounded, and more than half of the painting was shredded by a hidden device before it was removed by the staff.

'Girl Without Balloon' critiques the art market and capitalism.

This incident led to a global media frenzy, especially since Banksy documented the act on social media, renaming the artwork to 'Love Is In The Bin'. In 2021, the piece was auctioned again - this time without a functioning shredder - and achieved a record price of over £18 million. Banksy subsequently renamed it 'Girl Without Balloon'. With his radical 'art stunt', Banksy not only questioned the conventions of the art market but also reinterpreted the significance of his work. The destruction of the originally sentimental motif, a girl with a heart balloon, transformed it into a multi-layered critique of capitalist structures and the art industry. The leftover piece became a symbol of the power of a single moment to break conventional boundaries and open new perspectives.

Exhibition of the original Banksy artwork: Important significance for MUCA.

For MUCA, showcasing the original is a matter of principle, as only reproductions and imitations circulate otherwise. Visitors are given a unique opportunity to experience this iconic piece in its original form and to be inspired by its significance as a critical reflection of societal realities. 'Girl Without Balloon' invites contemplation beyond the limits of art and society.

Opening hours and tickets: The artwork will be on display until October 26, 2025, from Friday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM at the MUCA Bunker. Tickets are priced at 15 euros (10 euros reduced) and serve as a combo ticket for visiting the MUCA Bunker and the additional exhibition 'Strata' by the Portuguese exceptional artist Vhils (at the MUCA main building). All proceeds from the exhibition go 100% to the in-house foundation, the MUCA Foundation.