Banksy domestic violence-inspired artwork is heading back home

A Banksy artwork that appeared on a wall last year is being moved again after a series of museum appearances. It will now be returned to the town where was first painted.

The piece, known as 'Valentine's Day Mascara' first appeared on a wall in Margate, Kent in February 2023. It depicted a woman appearing to shove her partner into a chest freezer. On closer inspection, you can see the woman has a swollen eye and missing tooth, leading many to believe the work is a commentary on domestic violence.

Shortly after it first appeared, Thanet District Council removed the freezer over what it called "safety concerns". It was returned the following day.

The work was then removed again and transported to be displayed at nearby amusement park Dreamland. It has since been displayed in London at Yamaha Music London and Yield Gallery.

It has now been confirmed that the work by the Bristol street artist is being returned to Margate, this time to The WonderWorks, Hornby Hobbies’ immersive visitor attraction.

Olly Raeburn, chief executive officer of Hornby Hobbies, said: "Banksy’s ‘Valentine’s Day Mascara’ has a special place in Margate’s heart, and we’re honoured to provide a new home for it at The WonderWorks.

"This move underscores Hornby’s commitment to the Margate community, which has supported us for seven decades, as well as our dedication to the world of collecting—a world that values treasured items and their stories."

Visitors can view the artwork for free from December 13 but the museum has invited people to make voluntary donations to Oasis Domestic Abuse Services.