- Banksy artwork stolen from London gallery, two men charged
- "Girl with Balloon" recovered, valued at £270,000
- Gallery manager describes theft and recovery as "completely bonkers"
Two men have been charged in connection with the theft of a Banksy artwork from a central London art gallery, according to the Metropolitan Police. The incident occurred at Grove Gallery on New Cavendish Street around 11:00 PM BST on Sunday.
The artwork in question, titled “Girl with Balloon,” was the sole item stolen during the burglary. Fortunately, it has since been recovered and returned to the gallery. Larry Fraser, 47, of Evelyn Denington Road, Beckton, and James Love, 53, of Elvin Drive, North Stifford, appeared before Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday. They are scheduled to appear at Kingston Crown Court on October 9.
Court documents reveal that Fraser and Love allegedly entered the Grove Gallery unlawfully and stole the “Girl With Balloon” print, valued at £270,000. The gallery had been hosting an exhibition titled “Banksy’s London Rebellion” from August 21 to September 7, which showcased various works by the elusive artist.
The gallery reported to BBC News that over £1.8 million worth of art was on display at the time of the theft. Following the incident, all artwork was removed and secured in storage.
Lindor Mehmenaj, the gallery manager, expressed his shock and distress upon discovering the broken glass and missing Banksy artwork. “I was petrified and horrified,” Mehmenaj said. He contacted the police on Monday morning. He was later astonished to learn that the artwork had been recovered and described the experience as “completely bonkers.”
The recovered Banksy artwork is currently stored in a nondescript office at the gallery, enclosed in a police evidence bag. Mehmenaj declined to comment on whether he had been in contact with Banksy, stating, “My lips are sealed.”
The “Girl with Balloon” print is part of a series of paintings and stencils by the renowned guerrilla artist. Another version of this artwork was partially shredded after being sold for over £1 million in 2018. In 2017, it was voted the nation’s favorite artwork in a poll of 2,000 people. Last month, Banksy unveiled a series of animal-themed works across London, including one at London Zoo.
