Banksy's Gorilla Art at London Zoo

In a surprising turn of events, workers at London Zoo were greeted by a new mural from the elusive street artist Banksy on Tuesday morning. The artwork, which features a gorilla, seal, and birds, marks the ninth installment in a series that has captivated Londoners over the past nine days. Each piece has been shared on Banksy’s Instagram, often accompanied by a London Zoo hashtag, leading to speculation about the artist's intentions, with interpretations ranging from an "anti-zoo message" to a tribute to the institution. Dan Simmonds, the zoo's animal operations manager, expressed his delight at the unexpected addition to the zoo's entrance, noting that the mural would attract many visitors during the busy season. The zoo has taken measures to protect the artwork, keeping the shutter closed to allow guests to admire it. Simmonds, who previously worked as a gorilla keeper, highlighted the significance of featuring a critically endangered western lowland gorilla in the mural. The artwork has already drawn crowds, with cyclists and visitors posing for selfies in front of the mural. Previous pieces in the series have included various animals, such as a mountain goat and piranhas, appearing in unexpected locations around London. The zoo's media manager, Rebecca Blanchard, described the mural as "incredible" and emphasized its accessibility for the public. As speculation continues about the meaning behind Banksy's series, it has been suggested that the works aim to uplift the public amid challenging news cycles, including recent unrest in the UK. The zoo is committed to preserving the mural, ensuring that it remains a part of London's vibrant art scene.