We Have Crossed the Rubicon in Street Art

Put the emphasis on ART when you say street art, pal. Here is an exclusive from TMZ - someone who defaced a Banksy will be prosecuted and possibly jailed:

Street artist Banksy has obviously gone to a whole new level when he is the subject of TMZ EXCLUSIVE!!!!! reports. Here’s the latest!!!!

David William Noll has been charged with FELONY vandalism. According to the criminal complaint — obtained by TMZ — Noll defaced 2 of Banksy’s most famous works — Girl on Swing and Peeing Dog.

The L.A. County D.A. filed FOUR separate vandalism charges, because Noll allegedly defaced both works and 5 days later went back and used paint remover on the walls. Max penalty — 5 years in prison.

Why didn’t Banksy get arrested for his initial vandalism?

The D.A. says the only way they will prosecute for vandalism is if the property owner complains — and Banksy got lucky … no one complained about his art … but they definitely weren’t into Noll’s handiwork.

This isn’t the only Banksy taunting going on in YouTube land. Another artist — perhaps the same man? — vandalized two protected works by Banksy in Park City, Utah, destroying one completely. But don’t worry, as last week a painting conservator was hired by the Park City building owner to save it. No, really: