16 lessons that businesses can learn from Banksy

Banksy is a British street artist and activist who gained international recognition in the early 2000s for his politically-charged and often satirical artwork that challenges societal norms and institutions. He has distinctive stencilling style and makes innovative use of various mediums to show case his art. He has redefined the boundaries of street art and contemporary art. But what is it that business can learn from this elusive global phenomenon?

Lesson 1: Creativity

If there is one thing that Banksy is known it’s his unique and thought-provoking art. He alone has his unique style. And example of this is his use of stencils, which is actually generally frowned upon in his sector. His art he also encourages the viewer to look at the world through a different perspective. Just as he does, businesses should make it a priority to discern themselves form the pack and in a manner that is unique to them. This is why they should encourage creativity and innovative thinking within the company.

Lesson 2: Authenticity

When it comes to the message in his art Banksy is true to himself. He touches matters that he finds important and does this consistently whether it’s popular or frowned upon. In an age where many businesses try please everyone and loose there authenticity. He is an example of  how staying close to your core values strengthens the relationship you have with others whether it be customers or employees.

Lesson 3: Branding

Branding is key! It influences how people perceive you company. If there is one artist who has created a strong brand then it’s Banksy. In his art he maintains a unique style, which includes his use of stencils that sets him apart from his contemporaries. By consistently creating works around controversial topics and where in he challenges societal norms he not only creates a buzz but also reveals some his personality. While some businesses try to play it safe and only touch topics when they become ‘hot’ giving a bandwagon jumping impression. Banksy goes further then just highlighting the various topics, he actively contributes to causes using revenue generated by his art. Banksy is a very elusive person. The sense of mystery around him creates a buzz around him and his art. This buzz is so strong that while Banksy doesn’t have an official social media presence, his art is shared by the public.  Showing how great branding can create a ‘less is more’ situation.

Lesson 4: Social responsibility

As said before Banksy is not one to shy away from social and political issues. Highlighting issues such as consumerism, immigration policy, environmental change, freedom of expression and a whole list more. His social commentary is engrained in his art and in part is what makes it so popular. For businesses it shows that social responsibility is not a box to be ticked off but something to engrain with company culture.  Engraining it within company culture attracts those who align with the same values. As a company it is not about focussing on al issues but choosing those that you want to engrain among your employees and message.

Lesson 5: Create a community

Banksy’s popularity is thanks to the community around him. Due to his ability to create a shared experience, he keeps the community engaged. This is something that businesses can take notes from. Shared experiences not only keep others engaged but also creates a sense of belonging and familiarity. Examples of this are his “Dismaland” and “Sirens of the Lambs” works. Whether it be customers or employees this sense familiarity and belonging turns them into a fan. Also even though Banksy works anonymously he has collaborated with other artists which is a way of nurturing the community of his contemporaries and also extending his fan base. While businesses tend to take an adversarial stance. Collaborating with other businesses gives access to each others communities, which leads to  a growth in individual communities and also an ally within the business world.

Lesson 6: Marketing

Banksy is known for his marketing stunts, From shredding his art work after had it been auctioned, or having a mobile truck filled with animatronic stuffed animals touring New York City streets, to creating a parody of Disneyland with his “Dismaland”. His various exploits show that marketing goes beyond a billboard and advertisement. They are closer to interactive events which grip the public He creates experiences which are an extension of his art. which can serve as a model for businesses that want to think outside the box when it comes to marketing.

Lesson 7: Adaptability

Banksy is able to adapt to changes and challenges, which can serve as a model for businesses that want to be able to adapt to changes and challenges. The various ways he showcases his art already shows how he is able to adapt his art to the environment. “The walled off hotel” is a perfect examples of this. The hotel and art exhibition is located in Bethlehem which you can imagine brings its challenges. Not only the city but where in the city it is located. The hotel is located right next to the wall separating Israel from Palestine and it is said that hotel rooms only get 25 minutes direct sunlight per day. Yet he managed to turn an a building with the ‘worst view’ into a tourist location which highlights the conflict of the region but also creates job opportunities for locals.

Lesson 8: Persistence

Banksy continues to create and share his art, even when it may not be well received. Due to his social commentary, there are several critics. “The walled off hotel” received criticism as some see it as commodifying the harsh conflict of the region. Then the topic of placement is also one to look at. Banksy also placed his art on walls and did this at night. While here fore mentioned example is close to his graffiti roots, the use of stencils however is not. Despite the criticism he still creates art on his terms an continues to shares his opinions via his art.

Lesson 9: Innovation

Banksy is known for using new techniques and mediums in his art, which can serve as a model for businesses that want to stay innovative.  His use of stenciling is an obvious example of how he embraces innovation. So let’s look beyond that. Where various artist stick to one medium he experiments with others, examples of this are his “Dismaland” and “The walled off hotel” art installations. One being a whole dystopian theme park and the other being a hotel and art gallery which boast to have the worst view in the world. Eventhough his origins lay in painting he dared to experiment with animatronics and even sculptures. Also dabbling in performance art by placing a living elephant in  a set piece within a hotel. The beauty of how Banksy innovates is that it is within brand, has a purpose and also pushes him to go beyond his comfort zone. Many businesses opt for the safe route which corals there innovation.

Lesson 10: Being disruptive

Banksy's art and public persona often challenges societal norms and conventions this brings  valuable lessons for businesses looking to stand out in a crowded market and connect with their audience. Banksy’s art triggers the viewer to view a standpoint from a different perspective.  Stimulating out of the box thinking and showing how taking creative risks can lead to innovation. Which is exactly what businesses should be stimulating their employees to do, so that they can stay ahead of the competition. Banksy’s unconventional use of public spaces and non-traditional marketing proves that daring to experiment and explore can do wonders for businesses who want to get their message, product and brand seen in a memorable manner.

Lesson 11: Making a statement

Banksy's art often makes a statement and raises awareness on various issues, which can serve as a model for businesses on how to make a positive impact on their customers and society. The way he uses visual storytelling and dares to be provocative all while remaining true to his brand is a lesson on how business can use visual stories to create a  better connection with their customers or how they can use provocative messaging to spark a buzz. The key is doing these things while staying true to their values and brand messaging style. This ensures they keep the trust of their customers but also positions them as thought leaders.

Lesson 12: Embracing change

Banksy’s art and methods evolve and change with the times. Which highlight ideal lessons for businesses that they should evolve with the times, take risks, embrace technology and collaborate in order create an impact on their customers and the world around them. Banksy’s art has evolved from graffiti to large scale art installations, a lesson in adapting and changing strategies to stay relevant and meet the needs of your customers. Showing how calculated risks can help businesses stay competitive and innovate in their industry. The way Banksy collaborates with other artist to amplify his message and expand his audience is an example of how joint initiatives can benefit all parties while creating extra value for customers and communities.

Lesson 13: Being a thought leader

Through his art Banksy demonstrates his position as a thought leader. From addressing issues such as war and the environment which encourages his audience to think critically about themselves and the world. To his use of various innovative techniques which demonstrate how he dares to take risks and experiment. While making use of humor and satire to comment on serious issues in an engaging and accessible manner He encourages critical thinking, challenges established systems and also inspires creative experimentation. Qualities that businesses need to maintain and grow within their industry. Imagine if businesses would be the ones sparking discussions and debates.

Lesson 14: Being mysterious

Even with all the fame Banksy has garnered the public has no idea who he is. This air of mystique only adds to his appeal. Businesses of course do not profit from anonymity but they can make use of creating an air of mystique around their brand and/or products.

Lesson 15: Being bold

Banksy is not someone who simply follows the status quo. His actions and art are bold! They bring about a moment in which one takes a different look at the world. Sometimes subtly and other moments overtly. By encouraging employees to do the same. Businesses can innovate internally and also within their space. 

Lesson 16: Breaking the rules

Banksy is known to defy expectations and doesn’t shy away from breaking the rules of his artform. His use of stencils is an example of how he breaks an unwritten rule within the classic graffiti community. Where other artists display their work in galleries or museums, he goes for public spaces. And his art itself go beyond the expected, such as street pieces which could pass for advertisements but actually critique consumerism. And while doing this he has managed to still maintain his anonymity. For businesses who are looking to think differently and break the rules he is stencil that they can follow and learn from.

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