Tesco Value Petrol Bomb, 2011

Catalogue copy

A Tesco Value Petrol Bomb print by renowned British street artist Banksy, b. 1974? -

In April 2011, riots broke out in Stokes Croft, Bristol, following the opening of a new Tesco Express store that had faced strong opposition from local residents. The unrest escalated after police raided a nearby building, believing petrol bombs were being manufactured inside.

In response, Banksy created Tesco Value Petrol Bomb, accompanied by a characteristically tongue-in-cheek statement reading:
"Banksy has produced this fine commemorative souvenir poster."

The print features Banksy's printed signature and serves as both a satirical commentary on consumer culture and a reflection on the social tensions of the time.