GET BACK TO THE GIFT SHOP

Remember when I raved about how much I loved 'Exit Through The Gift Shop' (here)? Well now you can watch a behind-the-scenes interview with the movie's producer (Jamie D'Cruz) and film editor (Chris King) who answer questions about all kinds of topics, but most importantly share anecdotes about the film and how Banksy went about making it.

Very cool.

(Thanks to, not surprisingly, Wooster Collective)

EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP

I went with a friend this weekend to see this new documentary about street art: "Exit Through the Gift Shop". It was fabulous. Very funny. Very cool. And a real treat for art nerds like me who have been following some of these street artists for a long time. The film takes you behind the scenes with artists like Shepard Fairey, Space Invade, Swoon, and Banksy, showing you how they work and tag. Living in New York and being a graduate student, I am very wary about dropping $13-$16 to see a movie. This one, however, was well worth the expense.

The movie is still only playing in select cities; check out the release schedule and get more information here.

PET SHOP BOY: BANKSY

NOTCOT: Banksy's Village Petstore & Charcoal Grill from Jean Aw on Vimeo.

Today, with my intrepid friend Courtney, I am going to see the Banksy exhibit down on 7th Avenue (to be specific: 89 7th Avenue South, near Bleecker).  If you haven't seen it yet, it is only open until Friday!  And it's free! You have no excuses.  It is not very often you get to see the work of Banksy, the infamous stencil art graffiti artist, in live action.  For more information visit the official webpage of the "shop" here.

SPEAKING OF BANKSY . . .

 . . . I just noticed the "shop" section of Banksy's website.  Hilarious.  I like his cheeky tone announcing that nothing has been endorsed by Banksy, yet you are free to "download and process" it . . . except, oh wait, the subtext says "Please note" this shop is for personal amusement only.  Please don't use it to start a business.  Thanks."  Haha.  Apparently we are in the age of required disclaimers for our sarcastic remarks.  No matter, Banksy does it well.

THE CANS FESTIVAL

Just in via the Wooster Collection: the Cans Festival in London on May 3, 4 & 5.  Featuring stencil art graffiti artists from all over the world, the festival's location is kept secret until the moment the festival starts.  There are only a couple Rules of Engagement:

1. stencils only (no freehand lettering or characters)
2. no going over other artists' work
3. there will be a lot of security

I am keeping my eye on the Wooster Collective for photos and more information on the festival.  Until then, enjoy this cheeky piece by Banksy.