The identity of the elusive street artist Banksy may have been uncovered, according to a new investigation by Reuters that claims to have identified the man behind the globally famous graffiti works.

Banksy has remained anonymous throughout his career, despite creating some of the most recognizable street art pieces in the world. His identity has been the subject of speculation for decades.

The new investigation claims that the artist is Robin Gunningham, a name that has circulated in connection with Banksy since at least 2008. According to the report, researchers believe they have gathered evidence that establishes the connection beyond dispute.

Evidence Presented In The Investigation

The Reuters investigation reportedly draws on several pieces of evidence, including:

• Photographs taken by former collaborators

• Travel details linked to Banksy’s work

• A confession note tied to a 2000 arrest in New York

• A 2022 trip to Ukraine allegedly taken with Robert Del Naja, the musician from Massive Attack who has also long been rumored to be connected to Banksy

The report also claims that Gunningham later changed his name to David Jones.

Banksy’s Lawyer Responds

Banksy’s long-time lawyer, Mark Stephens, responded to the claims by disputing aspects of the investigation.

Stephens stated that the artist does not accept that many of the details presented in the report are correct and warned that publicly revealing the identity of the artist could endanger him.

According to Stephens, anonymity is essential to the artist’s work and protects freedom of expression.

He argued that working under a pseudonym allows artists to challenge authority and political systems without fear of retaliation or censorship.

A Career Built On Anonymity

Banksy first emerged in the UK street art scene in the 1990s and has since become one of the most influential artists in the world. His works often combine dark humor and political commentary, appearing unexpectedly in public spaces.

One of his recent artworks appeared outside the High Court in London in September 2025, showing a judge swinging a gavel while striking someone lying on the ground. The mural was widely interpreted as commentary on arrests made during a pro-Palestine protest in London.

The artwork was later removed, although the outline of the piece reportedly remains visible.

Mystery Still Surrounds The Artist

Despite the new investigation, the true identity of Banksy remains officially unconfirmed.

For many fans and art critics, the mystery surrounding the artist has become an essential part of Banksy’s legacy, raising the question of whether revealing the person behind the art would change how the work is perceived.

For now, the world’s most famous anonymous artist may still remain exactly that.