A Bristol-based mobile game in development has secured funding through its sale of the UK's number one favourite artwork, 'Girl with Balloon' by the elusive, Banksy.
VistaVenus, which was founded in a small studio beneath the famous Christmas Steps in Banksy's home town, is a new open-world multiplayer mobile game currently in development.
Mark Wools, founder and creative director of VistaVenus purchased 'Girl with Balloon' for £150 in 2012. He said that he was "drawn to its profound message hope".
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Mr Wools has now sold the painting for £425,000 to fund his gaming world, which he said promotes inclusivity, creativity, discovery, balance and positive progression. He added that the sale is a "record-breaking" amount as the painting is a signed edition.
The creative director said: "[The sale] is a decision that aligns with my values, and I believe Banksy's too! Art has the power to inspire and transform, and I'm excited to see how VistaVenus will touch the lives of young players around the world."
VistaVenus will offer an immersive, safely-social, story-led experience that promises to ethically engage younger gamers. It's being developed by a collective of multi-industry professionals committed to creating a positive legacy through purpose-driven gaming.
The sale of 'Girl with Balloon' solidifies VistaVenus's financial footing. The funds will be used to progress the game's development expanding its inclusive community.
'Girl with Balloon' is Banksy's most iconic image, depicting a young girl reaching for a heart-shaped balloon, just out of her grasp. Fraught with emotive interpretations - some see the girl as losing the balloon, while others see her as on the verge of catching it - it is an allegory of hope, love, and freedom.
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