This amusing and provocative mural epitomizes the laidback yet avant-garde and edgy atmosphere of one of Bristol’s most artistic neighborhoods.
The Banksy Graffiti Mild Mild West (also called The Mild Mild West) is one of the earliest wall murals by the anonymous street artist Banksy. It appeared in 1999 on an exterior wall of a one-time solicitor’s office in the bohemian Stokes Croft neighborhood. Banksy Graffiti Mild Mild West portrays a satirical anti-establishment scenario and was created in response to police raids at unlicensed warehouse parties that took place in Bristol in the 1990s.
The mural is predominately black and white and features three riot police officers standing in a line on one side. On the other side is a brightly colored teddy bear throwing a lit Molotov cocktail at the police. The teddy bear symbolizes the nonchalant vibe of Bristol’s artsy crowd with an ability to fight for their beliefs. At the top of the mural is its name and at the bottom is the name of the artist.
Curiously for an incognito artist, Banksy created this piece during daylight hours over a period of 3 days. A Bristol-based anti-graffiti organization vandalized the mural with red paint in 2009. The paint was washable, however, and The Mild Mild West was soon restored to its original form.
After studying the mural, spend some time exploring the streets of Stokes Croft, a cultural hub affectionately called the People’s Republic of Stokes Croft by locals. Independent traders, bars and cafés line the streets and street art decorates most buildings.
Learn about the neighborhood’s history and evolution at the Stokes Croft Museum, shop at street markets and party at underground dance clubs. Don’t miss the Rose Trap, which is another Banksy graffiti that shows a rose caught in a mousetrap.
Banksy Graffiti Mild Mild West is just a 10-minute walk from Bristol City Centre and about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) north of Bristol Temple Meads train station. Metered street parking is available, although spaces are limited.
