British artist Banksy heads pop-art exhibition ‘Dismaland’

Weston-super-Mare is on for a treat. Or not. 

 

British artist Banksy who is known for his provocative stencil approach to graffiti headed a pop-art exhibition at the seaside resort in Somerset, England which features "uneven floor surfaces, extensive use of strobe lighting, imagery unsuitable for small children, and swearing." 

 

The artist who chose to remain anonymous for most of his career has launched "Dismaland," which goes beyond the family-friendly spectacle and entertainment that usual theme parks offer. According to its website, Dismaland is "a festival of art, amusements, and entry-level anarchism." 

 

To complete the world of Dismaland, Banksy was joined by at least 50 artists from around the world, art blog Colossal shared. 

 

They include Bäst, ESPO, Bill Barminski, Damien Hirst, Caitlin Cherry, Josh Keyes, Polly Morgan, and David Shrigley. 

 

Visitors of the "bemusement park" will be greeted by a distorted representation of Little Mermaid sitting on a rock in the middle of a murky lake. Behind the sculpture is a derelict castle--the gateway to Dismaland. 

 

The complex features interactive artworks, some rides, a few games, live performances, and shenanigans Banksy and his troop of artists can think of. 

 

To add more drama, brooding and ill-tempered staff roam around to make visitors' lives more miserable. 

 

 

 

A word of caution: Dismaland prohibits spray paint, marker pens, knives, and--most importantly--legal representatives of the Walt Disney Corporation, its website said. 

 

The park will be open to the public from August 22 to September 27.
— Trisha Macas/JDS, GMA News