Banksy’s home city Bristol is an urban canvas for the elusive artist

In Bristol, between deejay shops and falafel restaurants, Banksy’s 'Mild Mild West' mural - depicting a teddy bear ready to fight with anti-riot police - looms large. What Banksy has given to Bristol, the city has returned to him, by helping to preserve his anonymity as if there is a secret pact with its inhabitants. Photo: AFP

Five years ago, British street artist Banksy adorned the side of a once uninspiring white brick building in Bristol with the familiar image of a girl gazing out solemnly.

The dank courtyard beneath the stencil has, like many other spots the mysterious artist has decorated in his purported home city in southwest England, become one of Britain’s most photographed places.