What does a name signify?

For the globally renowned artist Banksy, using a pseudonym has allowed him to maintain anonymity throughout his three-decade career in graffiti art, characterized by intricate human figures and profound political messages.

Recently, his attorney has responded to a comprehensive investigative report released by Reuters on March 13, which identified him as Robin Gunningham, a man from Bristol who adopted the name David Jones around 2008.

In a statement, Banksy’s long-time lawyer Mark Stephens expressed to the outlet that the elusive artist “does not accept that many of the details contained within your enquiry are correct” after being confronted with evidence suggesting he is Gunningham.

Stephens further stressed that Banksy’s anonymity is vital due to the fact that he has “been subjected to fixated, threatening and extremist behavior.”

“[Working] operating anonymously or under a pseudonym serves essential societal interests,” he added. “It safeguards freedom of expression by enabling creators to confront power without fear of retaliation, censorship, or persecution—especially when tackling sensitive topics like politics, religion, or social justice.”