Banksy’s ex-manager lifts the lid on elusive graffiti artist

Banksy’s is now estimated to be in his fifties yet he remains as prolific and in-demand as ever, as evidenced by the numerous spray-painted animals that have appeared across London this year. It seems likely that the enigmatic artist will continue creating street art until the end of his days. “Banksy will never retire. I’ve told him countless times to do so. He needs to enjoy his life,” says Steve Lazarides, a fellow Bristolian who has had the privilege of knowing Banksy as well as anyone as the street artist became a phenomenon. As his photographer, manager, and collaborator from 1997 to 2008, Lazarides has a unique perspective on the artist’s career. As he prepares to part with most of the treasured possessions from their time together, Lazarides looks back fondly on their partnership. With a hint of paternal pride, he remarks: “Banksy, what is all the fuss about? Have a look at what he’s done. Read More Related Articles Read More Related Articles “He was way past being a graffiti artist even in the early 2000s the guy was going out and doing exhibition drops. We were doing shows with 200 live rats in. He was taking it to...