Banksy-inspired street artist creates ‘mocking’ Prince Harry mural in Bristol

Street art appearing to mock Prince Harry has appeared in Bristol city centre - and is one of several pieces of work recently created by a Banksy-inspired artist from Italy.

The ‘paste-up’ is located on a telephone kiosk next to the water fountains on St Augustine’s Parade shows the Duke of Sussex holding his book, but with the title ‘Rebel without a crown’.

In his other hand, the smiling monarch is holding a wad of £20 notes. Three years ago, the Prince announced that he and Meghan Markle were to step down from royal duties. This year, he released his book, called Spare, in which he criticised the royal family.

The artwork in the city centre was created by Italian street artist Salvatore Benintende, and is one of a few Royal-themed pieces which he has done in the city. Others include a mural of the Queen Elizabeth holding a portrait of the new King next to the words “God Save My Son!” in Sydney Row.

Another, in Newfoundland Street, shows King Charles III and Queen Camilla with Burger King crowns.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Benintende, who goes by the name TVBOY, said the work had received a ‘huge reaction’ in Bristol. He said it was not vandalism, but a ‘present’ to the city, and that he had arrived partly down to the city being the home of his inspiration, Banksy.

He added: “What we get from the news is a constant saga about the Royal Family, and I wanted to connect with the local people. I think that a lot of people in Bristol are against the monarchy in some way.”

The artist has since returned to Milan where he is holding a free exhibition of his work.