Batsford to publish book on Banksy’s lost works

Batsford has acquired world rights to publish Banksy’s Lost Works: On the trail of his vanishing street art by journalist and author Will Ellsworth-Jones. Due to publish in February 2025, it’s a richly illustrated landmark book, documenting the sold, stolen and destroyed works of Banksy – one of the most renowned and controversial artists of our time.

Art by Banksy attracts media coverage from all over the world, as seen this summer when a series of animal-themed artworks appeared in locations across London. Some of them only lasting a few hours before being removed or stolen. Showcasing the often mysterious disappearances of works by one of the art world’s more elusive figures and filled with beautiful photography to immortalise them, Banksy’s Lost Works is a truly indispensable addition to the library of any street art fan.

Ellsworth-Jones is the acclaimed author of the bestselling original biography Banksy: The man behind the wall (2012), which was sold into eight markets. The international interest in Banksy’s Lost Works is also strong with editions already confirmed for France, Germany, Japan and South Korea.

Ellsworth-Jones said: ‘As Banksy has become ever more famous so too has his artwork become ever more precarious. No sooner does Banksy spray a wall than rivals are attempting to obliterate it, dealers trying to sell it or thieves trying to pinch it. My book documents the key works we have lost and the extraordinary story of what happened to them.’

David Graham, Managing Director of Batsford, said: ‘It’s great to be working again with Will and this book chronicling the works by Banksy you can no longer see, provides a fascinating global survey of the most important works sold, destroyed or stolen and is a timely reminder of Banksy’s wit and acute social commentary.’

Banksy’s Lost Works: On the trail of his vanishing street art by Will Ellsworth-Jones is published by Batsford 13 February 2025. Hardback | £20