Banksy | I AM AN IMBECILE BALLOON
2015
Official lithograph
78,5 x 55 cm/ 29 x 23 in
✔ Limited edition
✔ Banksy merchandise from his Dismaland exhibition
The “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloon was a satirical artwork featured in Banksy’s 2015 art installation, Dismaland, a temporary “bemusement park” in Weston-super-Mare, England. Designed by British artist David Shrigley, the balloon is a black vinyl piece emblazoned with the phrase “I AM AN IMBECILE” in bold white letters.
At Dismaland, these balloons were distributed by staff members dressed in pink vests and Mickey Mouse ears, who maintained a deliberately apathetic demeanor, enhancing the park’s atmosphere of disillusionment. The balloons served as a critique of consumer culture and the superficiality of mass-produced souvenirs. By offering a balloon that labels its holder an “imbecile,” the artwork challenges visitors to reflect on the nature of consumerism and the often unquestioned behaviors associated with it.
Dismaland itself was a broader commentary on societal issues, featuring works from 58 artists, including pieces addressing topics like immigration, environmental degradation, and political apathy. The park’s design parodied traditional theme parks, presenting decaying attractions and disenchanted staff to subvert expectations and provoke critical thought.
Today, the “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloons are considered collector’s items, symbolizing a unique intersection of art, satire, and social commentary. They continue to provoke discussions about the role of art in challenging societal norms and the ways in which consumer culture can be both embraced and critiqued.
FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE
2015
Official lithograph
78,5 x 55 cm/ 29 x 23 in
✔ Limited edition
✔ Banksy merchandise from his Dismaland exhibition
The “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloon was a satirical artwork featured in Banksy’s 2015 art installation, Dismaland, a temporary “bemusement park” in Weston-super-Mare, England. Designed by British artist David Shrigley, the balloon is a black vinyl piece emblazoned with the phrase “I AM AN IMBECILE” in bold white letters.
At Dismaland, these balloons were distributed by staff members dressed in pink vests and Mickey Mouse ears, who maintained a deliberately apathetic demeanor, enhancing the park’s atmosphere of disillusionment. The balloons served as a critique of consumer culture and the superficiality of mass-produced souvenirs. By offering a balloon that labels its holder an “imbecile,” the artwork challenges visitors to reflect on the nature of consumerism and the often unquestioned behaviors associated with it.
Dismaland itself was a broader commentary on societal issues, featuring works from 58 artists, including pieces addressing topics like immigration, environmental degradation, and political apathy. The park’s design parodied traditional theme parks, presenting decaying attractions and disenchanted staff to subvert expectations and provoke critical thought.
Today, the “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloons are considered collector’s items, symbolizing a unique intersection of art, satire, and social commentary. They continue to provoke discussions about the role of art in challenging societal norms and the ways in which consumer culture can be both embraced and critiqued.
FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE
2015
Official lithograph
78,5 x 55 cm/ 29 x 23 in
✔ Limited edition
✔ Banksy merchandise from his Dismaland exhibition
The “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloon was a satirical artwork featured in Banksy’s 2015 art installation, Dismaland, a temporary “bemusement park” in Weston-super-Mare, England. Designed by British artist David Shrigley, the balloon is a black vinyl piece emblazoned with the phrase “I AM AN IMBECILE” in bold white letters.
At Dismaland, these balloons were distributed by staff members dressed in pink vests and Mickey Mouse ears, who maintained a deliberately apathetic demeanor, enhancing the park’s atmosphere of disillusionment. The balloons served as a critique of consumer culture and the superficiality of mass-produced souvenirs. By offering a balloon that labels its holder an “imbecile,” the artwork challenges visitors to reflect on the nature of consumerism and the often unquestioned behaviors associated with it.
Dismaland itself was a broader commentary on societal issues, featuring works from 58 artists, including pieces addressing topics like immigration, environmental degradation, and political apathy. The park’s design parodied traditional theme parks, presenting decaying attractions and disenchanted staff to subvert expectations and provoke critical thought.
Today, the “I AM AN IMBECILE” balloons are considered collector’s items, symbolizing a unique intersection of art, satire, and social commentary. They continue to provoke discussions about the role of art in challenging societal norms and the ways in which consumer culture can be both embraced and critiqued.
FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE
