About CND Soldiers

Captured in stencil-sprayed style, two soldiers appear in the print as they crouch on the ground surveying the landscape. One soldier holds a machine gun, while the other paints a big red peace sign. The clash of symbols builds a tension positioning the peacemaking and weaponization as conflicting forces. The print challenges the conventional notions of peacemaking, urging the viewer to imagine it beyond the sphere of military undertaking.

Broader Context

A poignant commentary on the UK’s engagement in the Iraq war, CND Soldiers originated as a mural near the Houses of Parliament in London. The work found inspiration in a real-life protest organised by activist Brian Haw and remains emblematic of Banksy's unwavering anti-war stance. In 2005, Banksy released CND Soldiers in two extensive editions – both signed and unsigned.

What’s unique about CND Soldiers

The mixture of monochrome elements with bursts of primary colours in CND Soldiers pays homage to the style of activist and street artist Shepard Fairey. The print represents a unique intersection of street art and activism, addressing the urgent issue of the UK’s involvement in the Iraq war.