World’s largest Banksy exhibition to open in Bischofswiesen

The world’s largest Banksy exhibition will come to Bischofswiesen in 2027, with more than 300 works on display for two weeks. BR reports that the show, known as the Modeste Collection, will open on March 6 at the Kulturhof Stanggass, a hotel with a spa and fine-dining restaurant in the Berchtesgadener Land.

The collection includes original works, prints, objects and rare collectibles assembled over 13 years by an unnamed private collector. It was sold to the collection in 2020. Organisers say more than 420,000 people have visited the exhibition at 20 venues in France and Italy.

Banksy’s socially critical street art often addresses war, oppression, consumerism, environmental destruction and social inequality. His works include images of a girl with a red heart-shaped balloon and a masked activist throwing flowers instead of a Molotov cocktail.

The exhibition has not been authorised by Banksy, whose identity remains officially unknown. The artist has criticised other commercial shows of his work that charge admission, but has not publicly criticised the Modeste Collection. Entry to the exhibition is free, and visitor donations go to non-profit groups. Organisers say more than 400,000 euros has been raised at previous venues.

Local associations and initiatives, which have yet to be announced, will help guide visitors and shape the supporting programme in Bischofswiesen.