Steve Lazarides, the former manager of the elusive street artist Banksy, recently auctioned off a collection of prints and original artworks, raking in approximately $1.4 million. This auction, conducted through Julien’s Auctions on October 31, showcased pieces that Lazarides had acquired over his more than two-decade-long relationship with Banksy.
The most notable sale was an original print of “Girl With Balloon” from around 2004, which fetched an impressive $104,000. Other highlights included a proof print of “Love Is in the Air (aka Flower Thrower)” circa 2003, selling for $45,500, and an original hand-cut stencil of Banksy’s name that went for $58,500.
Lazarides first crossed paths with Banksy in Bristol in 1997, where he photographed and interviewed the artist for Sleazenation magazine. This encounter marked the beginning of their partnership, with Lazarides taking on the role of overseeing the commercial aspects of Banksy’s work. Together, they made prints accessible to the average person, selling unsigned prints for £35 and signed prints for £150.
However, as the prices of Banksy’s work skyrocketed in the secondary market, Lazarides began to feel the strain of the commercialization of the artist’s creations. He believed that Banksy’s art was meant to be for everyone and not just for profit. Ultimately, in 2008, Lazarides decided to part ways with Banksy to focus on other artists.
Since then, Lazarides has worked with artists like Jonathan Yeo, JR, and Vhils, while also publishing the book “Banksy Captured” about Banksy’s journey to fame. Now, with the sale of his collection, Lazarides hopes to shift his focus back to photography, his true passion.
In addition to the artworks, the auction featured various items connected to Banksy, including handwritten press releases, vintage flyers, and a pair of special edition Puma sneakers from a 2003 exhibition. It also included 15 burner phones that Lazarides had used to communicate with Banksy discreetly during his time as the artist’s manager.
Reflecting on his time working with Banksy, Lazarides recalls the constant media scrutiny and pressure to reveal the artist’s identity. However, he remained steadfast in protecting Banksy’s anonymity, knowing that exposing the artist would diminish the magic of his work.
As Lazarides moves on from this chapter of his career, he looks forward to delving back into photography and exploring new artistic endeavors. The auction of his collection marks the end of an era but opens up new possibilities for Lazarides and his creative pursuits.
