Penny - Stencilled quote on dollar banknote - British Stencil Art

"Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask and he will tell you the truth".

Oscar Wilde's most famous aphorisms is the one quoted above. 

1 layer hand cut stencil, Spray paint on genuine $1 bills 
15.6 x 6.6 cm
Not Dated (circa 2008) , Not numbered

Penny Preaches on Paper: A Dollar Bill Sermon

British street artist Penny transforms a humble dollar bill into a miniature pulpit with this Oscar Wilde's quote. This piece is more than just money - it's a platform for a powerful message: "Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth."

Why We Dig It:

• Micro-Masterpiece: The intricate stenciling of the quote is a testament to Penny's technical prowess. It's like finding a tiny sermon etched on your pocket change.

• A Mask of Truth: Oscar Wilde's quote suggests that people often hide their true selves when speaking directly. A mask, in this context, can be a symbol of anonymity or a way to express oneself freely.

• Dollar Bill Pulpit: Penny's choice to use a dollar bill as a canvas adds a layer of irony. It's as if the currency itself is being used to preach against the materialism and superficiality often associated with it.

But Wait, There's More:

• The Greenback Canvas: Using a dollar bill as a platform for this message could be seen as a critique of capitalism and the way it can distort our values and identities.

Penny's "Stenciled Quote on Dollar Banknote" is a thought-provoking piece that uses everyday objects to challenge the status quo. It's a testament to the power of street art to spark conversation and make us question the world around us, one tiny stencil at a time.

About the artist:
British stencil artist Jim Penfold aka Penny (aka Onepennypiece) is known for his super tiny and intricate works on anything from currency  to items as small as a postage stamp.  Penny is constantly pushing himself to create stencil works that are not only beautiful, but convey a message.

Penny graduated from Chelsea College of Art & Design and Central Saint Martins and quickly established himself within the urban art scene in London. He has since received global critical acclaim for his hand cut, extremely detailed stencil artwork.

ArtDrunk.Gallery is always on the look out to purchase original artworks by Penny. Feel free to contact us should you wish to discuss selling any of his work.