A landlord from Lowestoft who ripped a Banksy from a wall has sold the artwork for £2 million, sparking outrage among residents of the seaside town.
Appearing in August, the artist’s painting depicting a child with a crowbar next to a sandcastle, the graffiti was a highlight for local residents.
Gary and Nadine Schwartz, the couple who owned the old electrical shop on London Road North, in Lowestoft removed the work of the world-renowned street artist and sold it privately to US buyers.
‘Crowbar Girl’ was one of 10 created in Suffolk and Norfolk by the mysterious street artist.
Deputy Town Mayor, Nasima Begum said it was a “shame” that the owners had decided to “profit off something that wasn’t for them”.
She added: ‘I’m sure Banksy didn’t put it on there in the hope that someone would profit from it.
‘It’s a real shame. The Banksy art created such a buzz and attracted so many visitors to the area.’
Local residents have shown their anger at the business owners for profiteering out of the local artwork. The former electrical shop had originally been on the market for £300,000 when the work appeared. Shortly after, it was relisted for £500,000 after Banksy confirmed it was part of his ‘Great British Spraycation’ series.
