This is a “Game Changer”.
Once this pandemic is over, one can only hope that healthcare workers across the nation gain all the recognition they deserve. [Featured image: AFP Photo/University Hospital Southampton/Stuart Martin]
Many individuals during the pandemic have attempted to show their gratitude, such as Captain Sir Tom Moore‘s effort to raise funds for their herculean efforts, and now Banksy, who has put his “Superhero Nurse” painting up for sale, with funds going to the NHS.
This piece – titled “Game Changer” – first appeared at University Hospital Southampton through the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in May 2020. Now, it has outsold its original value of around £3.5 million to sell for £14.4 million at Christie’s Auction House.
Christie’s House has said proceeds are to go towards supporting the wellbeing of staff and patients at University Hospital Southampton. Funds are also due to go towards health organisations and charities which help enhance treatment by the NHS. The hospital is also receiving a reproduction of the painting to hang on its walls, to offer an “image of hope”.
“Game Changer” is a black and white piece depicting a young boy playing with a nurse who wears a mask and cape, with superhero batman and superman toys discarded in the bin. When it was first installed, Banksy provided a note reading: “Thanks for all you’re doing. I hope this brightens the place up a bit, even if it’s only black and white.”
After totalling additional fees, the full price of this sale actually came to £16.7 million, making it a world-record for a Banksy piece.