Banksy has been unmasked. But just how valuable is anonymity in the art world? | CNN

The biggest mystery in the art world has apparently been solved: Banksy has been unmasked as a bespectacled middle-aged man from Bristol, England called Robin Gunningham. His name was revealed in a sprawling investigation by Reuters, though many say it has been an open secret for years, having been reported by the British tabloid the Mail on Sunday as far back as 2008. True to form, the artist formerly known as Banksy has neither confirmed nor denied his identity and continues to maintain a low profile. His representatives did not respond to a request for comment from CNN. How the revelation, which made headlines globally, will impact his output and its value remains uncertain. Banksy is not alone in preferring to remain anonymous. Among the artists who conceal their identities is Jerkface, a New York street artist known for his unique interpretations of much-loved animated characters. In an email to CNN –– which did not reveal his identity –– Jerkface said anonymity had long been valued in the arts. “Looking at all the creative fields, visual art is one of the few that expression can be made without the necessity of revealing one’s identity,” he said. “Actors and m