Banksy's Unauthorized Double Exhibition Opens in Palermo's Kalsa District

An unauthorized Banksy exhibition titled 'Ritratto di ignoto. L’artista chiamato Banksy' opens in Palermo across two venues: Loggiato San Bartolomeo and Palazzo Trinacria, from October 7, 2020 to January 17, 2021. Curated by Gianluca Marziani, Stefano Antonelli, and Acoris Andipa, the show features over 100 original pieces including early freehand paintings, screenprints, installation objects, and works from Dismaland (2015), such as 'Mickey Snake' depicting Mickey Mouse swallowed by a python. The exhibition marks the start of a cultural district revitalization in the historic Kalsa neighborhood, led by Fondazione Sant’Elia and Fondazione Pietro Barbaro. The area is also home to Palazzo Butera, which houses the Collezione Francesca e Massimo Valsecchi. The exhibition's title references Antonello da Messina's iconic painting 'Ritratto di ignoto', linking the mystery of the unknown sitter to Banksy's anonymity. The artist's anonymous identity has helped propagate his ethical and pacifist message worldwide.