Street artist claims Windsor mural after Banksy speculation spreads online

A street artist has come forward to claim responsibility for the overnight mural in Windsor, following widespread speculation that it might be the work of Banksy.

After the painting appeared on the wall of Ward Royal on Charles Street on Wednesday, dozens of residents were spotted taking photos with the 'latest tourist attraction'.

Lib Dem ward councillor for Eton and Castle, Cllr Mark Wilson, posted a selfie on Facebook on Wednesday captioned: "This has appeared today in Windsor to much interest and excitement - is it genuine or not, and is it art or graffiti?”

The artwork features a silhouette of a Royal guard brandishing a can of spray paint, alongside the red stencilled words 'God save the Kingdom', with the suffix '-dom' written in black graffiti.

Now, an anonymous East London-based artist known as DNZ has laid claim to the new piece of street art.

Although his identity is kept hidden from the public, his trademark stencil artwork has graced streets nationwide, in Los Angeles, Denver and Florida, as well as galleries in both the UK and the US.

Speaking to the Express, DNZ said his work can be ‘interpreted in many ways’ but intended for the mural to coincide with King Charles III's 77th birthday, which falls today (November 14).

“I chose Windsor because of the castle – it’s almost as if one of the King's Guards had sneaked out at night to show his frustration at serving a country that he feels needs saving,” he added.

“Changing the well-known ‘God save the King’ into ‘God save the kingdom’. 

“That’s the beauty of controversial art. It's open for interpretation based on the viewer.”

Earlier this year, DNZ was named a finalist for the Dubel Prize 2025, an accolade recognising him as ‘Emerging British Artist of the Year’.

More than 200 guests attended an event showcasing DNZ’s work at The Stables in Covent Garden in September, featuring guest speakers and words from the artist himself.

After leaving the military around six years ago, DNZ moved to Hackney and began working as an engineer, but has spent the past two years focusing on his art.

Anonymity remains a defining part of his artistic identity.

DMZ has reportedly said his favourite piece is a mural of a young girl giving a flower to a young boy in a children’s play area in London Fields.

In response to recent online speculation that his latest mural in Windsor might be removed, DNZ said: “Would it have stayed if it were Banksy?

“Would Banksy’s name make the piece any different? That’s what I want to ask people.

“To those who don’t view it as art, maybe try going outside more.”