Author: Borna Libeertines

Borna Libertines is a Collage Graffiti Street Artist of American and Croatian descent, residing in New York City. Following graduation from the University of Zagreb with a degree in Landscape Design and Horticulture, Borna emigrated to New York City. In 2003, after obtaining a Social Security Number, Borna enrolled at City College of New York and graduated in 2005 with a degree in Landscape Architecture. Over the past few years, Borna has split his time between NYC, Europe, and Mexico City, creating collage graffiti paintings using street posters collected around these cities. Borna's collages address personal, global, and social themes of the time. His latest show was held at: Hotel Lone, Rovinj, Croatia, July 15 - September 02, 2024, #Hashtag Gallery, Mexico City, Mexico, May 16 to June 01, 2024. Borna's art involves reconstituting torn-up pieces of popular artifacts, including advertisements, to create mixed-media collages. His compositions integrate text, color blocks, commercial imagery, and graffiti to convey humor, eroticism, and sociopolitical critique. By layering and ripping posters, Borna captures the spirit of the times and the image of a society dominated by communication and media obsession, integrating the streetscape into his art. In addition to his artwork, Borna is also an electronic techno music artist. EP “Neon Highway”, EP "Inside My Mind", EP "A Darkness", EP: "Tengo Lo Que Tengo", LP titled "Memory Leak". Occupation: Landscape Architect qualifications BSLA Landscape Architect 2005, City Collage of New York BSLA Landscape design and horticulter 2000,

Posted on October 24, 2025October 28, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Borna Libertines – “Into the Shadows” (Single)

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This record features “Into the Shadows” twice – once as the main track, then again as “Into the Shadows Acid.” The second version takes the initial idea further, building on a feeling of unease and things left undone.

Borna Libertines, an electronic musician from New York City, dives deep with “Into the Shadows,” a track surfacing September 17, 2025. It’s a shadowy journey through inner worlds – those tunes born only within the artist’s imagination, forever unspoken.

“Into the Shadows” grabs you right away – it’s about those tunes artists start yet abandon, melodies haunting their thoughts. Because of this focus, Borna joins others in making electronic music less about dancing and more about what happens inside when someone creates.

This track arrives as a pair: “Into the Shadows,” alongside its remixed counterpart, “Into the Shadows Acid.” One version stands as the main idea, while the other twists it, heightening feelings of unease and lingering tension.

Borna builds stories through song, mixing bleak futures alongside raw feeling. Lyrics such as “Metallic hearts beat in exchange / Pulse is heavy, beats like rain” quickly conjure up a world of machines and steel. Visions of people “dancing in the dark, insane” under “black electric skies” recall late-night Berlin techno – those times nearing dawn where joy melts into unsettling thoughts, becoming one strange pull.

A tune stuck within, never quite released – that feeling drives the song. It speaks to the ache when inspiration circles endlessly yet stays unrealized. Anyone who makes music knows this well; we all chase after echoes of songs that slip through our grasp.

Borna favors a mood instead of sticking to patterns. Their work skips typical loud noises alongside expected crescendos. “Into the Shadows” builds suspense by piling on sounds alongside how space feels within the song. Lyrics hint at a restless beat – one that avoids predictability, leaving you constantly unsettled.

Borna clearly knows where techno comes from, evident in the inclusion of an acid take on the track. Lately, people have been revisiting that classic sound – those bubbling 303 basses alongside relentless rhythms – as artists blend history with modern ideas. Offering both cuts lets you hear the core themes shaped by distinct sounds; one feels shadowy and spacious, whereas the other is raw, built on tangible equipment.

It’s interesting where Borna fits into things, being an artist out of New York. Everyone talks about Berlin when it comes to techno, however New York actually boasts a long story with the sound – think back to the nineties raves, even now at those warehouse gigs. Artists here seem to inject a certain toughness into their electronic work; they aren’t afraid of harsher sounds or heavier feelings, likely because the city itself just doesn’t let up.

The music evokes swirling fog exhaled, silence that roars back, then a jolt like lightning. It feels like letting something out, a sonic release. Repeated lines – “Into the shadows deep we go” keeps returning – echo how techno works; it doesn’t need surprises, instead building intensity through small shifts, drawing you further within.

If you dig Phase Fatale, Regis, or Ancient Methods, this record – “Into the Shadows” – will resonate; it’s shadowy techno steeped in industry yet feels deeply individual. Borna doesn’t just mimic bleakness, instead injecting a raw, revealing honesty into each track.

So, does this actually work when people are experiencing it? Techno really comes alive from the mix of carefully made tracks alongside what happens right then – studio perfection meeting raw, in-the-moment vibes. You can almost see “Into the Shadows” fitting perfectly within a long DJ set; its moodiness unfolding gradually, drawing listeners into a trance.

“Into the Shadows” doesn’t try to please everyone; instead, it simply is. While many musicians chase popular tastes fueled by streams and charts, Borna made something bold – a song that asks you to really listen. Strangely enough, what isn’t played feels like the most important part, shaping every other sound within the music.

“Into the Shadows” offers a first glimpse into what makes Borna’s art tick, immediately revealing a unique sensibility. It keenly focuses on atmosphere, how sounds affect our minds, and moreover techno’s potential to convey intricate feelings. Emerging from New York’s electronic landscape, this record marks Borna as an artist worth noting – one who dares experiment with shadowy realms, choosing creative ambition instead of easy popularity.

This tune nudges you to think about the melodies stuck in your head, those projects left unfinished, notions lingering at the edge of thought. It’s more than simply a dance song; rather, it explores making things – how what we envision differs from what actually comes out. Despite tackling big ideas, “Into the Shadows” works, offering something to feel alongside something to ponder.

-Borna Libertines

Listen to Apple Music

Posted on September 17, 2025October 23, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Into the Shadows, new single by Borna Libertines, September 17, 2025

New single Into The Shadows by @borna_libertines includes two song :

Single is about making a song that never sees the light but is stuck in a head

Into the Shadows

Metallic hearts beat in exchange
Pulse is heavy, beats like rain
The ground shakes with every side
dancing in the dark, insane.
A haunted rhythm reaches high,
a melody inside that remains unsung.

Into the shadows deep we go,
where silence screams and echoes grow,
electric comes and storm ….
under these black electric skies

Into the shadows deep we go,
where silence screams and echoes grow,
electric comes and storm ….
under these black electric skies

The ground shakes with every side
A haunted rhythm reaches high,
vapor clouds drift from my lungs
a melody inside that remains unsung.

Into the shadows deep we go,
where silence screams and echoes grow,
under these black electric skies
Into the shadows deep we go,
where silence screams and echoes grow,
under these black electric skies

Lyrics by Born Libertines

Posted on April 15, 2025April 15, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Paris Metro’s Ban on Hockney Poster: A Controversy Explored

The Paris Metro recently banned promotional posters for David Hockney’s upcoming retrospective at the Fondation Louis Vuitton because the image showed the artist holding a cigarette. This decision, based on France’s strict anti-tobacco advertising laws, has stirred controversy and frustration. Hockney himself called the ban “complete madness,” pointing out the irony that a painting depicting him smoking was allowed, while the photograph was not.

The incident has ignited a wider conversation about the balance between public health regulations and artistic freedom, especially in a city celebrated for its rich cultural and revolutionary history. Critics argue that such censorship risks stifling creativity and undermining the role of art in public spaces.

Meanwhile, the Fondation Louis Vuitton exhibition, running from April to August 2025, promises a stunning retrospective of Hockney’s work over the past 25 years, featuring over 400 pieces including iconic paintings, digital art, and immersive installations. Despite the poster controversy, the show is set to be a major celebration of one of the world’s most influential contemporary artists.

David Hockney’s Reaction

The 86-year-old British artist expressed his frustration with the Paris Metro’s decision, describing it as “complete madness” and an example of excessive control . Hockney, known for his advocacy of personal freedom, found the distinction between the banned photograph and the permitted painting particularly perplexing, as both depicted him smoking. His reaction highlights the tension between artistic expression and public health regulations in France. Sir Norman Rosenthal, a curator, echoed Hockney’s sentiments, calling the decision “beyond comprehension” and contrary to Paris’s historical association with artistic liberty and revolution.

Posted on April 10, 2025October 23, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Ethical Concerns Surrounding AI-Generated Art

The rise of AI-generated art has sparked a range of ethical debates that question the boundaries of creativity, ownership, and fairness in the art world. While these technologies offer exciting possibilities, they also raise critical concerns that must be addressed to ensure responsible use.

Below are the key ethical issues surrounding AI-generated art:

Authorship and Ownership
AI-generated art challenges traditional notions of authorship. When an artwork is created using AI, it becomes unclear who the rightful creator is: the developer of the AI model, the user who inputs prompts, or the AI system itself. This ambiguity complicates intellectual property rights and raises questions about how to attribute credit fairly.
Additionally, AI systems often replicate styles or elements from existing works, leading to accusations of plagiarism or uncredited derivative works. For example, artists have expressed frustration over their unique styles being mimicked by AI tools without acknowledgment or compensation.
Copyright and Legal Issues
AI training datasets frequently include billions of publicly available images, many of which are copyrighted. These images are used without explicit consent from their creators, raising significant legal and ethical concerns:

Unconsented Use of Artwork: Artists often discover their work has been included in training datasets without permission. Websites like “Have I Been Trained” allow users to check if their images were used in this way, highlighting the lack of transparency in data sourcing.
Legal Uncertainty: Current copyright laws are ill-equipped to handle cases involving AI-generated works. For instance, if an AI-generated piece closely resembles a copyrighted artwork, determining liability becomes complex.
These issues have already led to lawsuits against companies developing AI art tools, emphasizing the need for clearer legal frameworks.

Devaluation of Human Creativity
AI’s ability to generate high-quality art in seconds has raised concerns about the devaluation of human effort and skill:

Effort vs. Automation: Traditional artists spend years honing their craft, while AI can replicate similar results almost instantaneously. This has led to backlash, such as when an AI-generated piece won first place at a Colorado State Fair art competition in 2022, sparking outrage among artists who felt their work was undervalued.
Market Saturation: The ease of creating visually impressive images with AI could lead to market oversaturation, making it harder for human artists to stand out or earn a living.

Bias and Ethical Representation
AI systems are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on. Unfortunately, many datasets reflect societal biases, which can manifest in problematic ways in AI-generated art:

Stereotypes and Misrepresentation: AI models may perpetuate harmful stereotypes or produce hyper-sexualized or culturally insensitive imagery.
Harmful Outputs: Without proper safeguards, AI can generate offensive or inappropriate content that damages reputations or causes harm to marginalized communities.
Ensuring diversity and inclusivity in training datasets is essential to mitigate these risks.

Transparency and Accountability
The lack of transparency in how AI-generated art is created raises ethical concerns:

Misrepresentation: Some users present AI-generated works as entirely human-made, misleading audiences about the creative process.
Accountability for Harmful Outputs: When an AI system produces controversial or offensive content, it is unclear whether responsibility lies with the developer, the user, or the platform hosting the work.
Transparency about how AI tools function and how outputs are generated is crucial for maintaining trust.

Ethical Use vs. Exploitation
The ethical use of AI tools hinges on whether they complement human creativity or replace it entirely:

Collaboration Over Replacement: Many argue that AI should serve as a tool to enhance human creativity rather than replace artists altogether. Ethical usage involves leveraging AI for ideation and experimentation while maintaining a human touch in the final product.
Impact on Artistic Traditions: The widespread adoption of AI-generated art raises concerns about its impact on cultural heritage and traditional artistic practices.

Addressing Ethical Concerns
To navigate these challenges responsibly, several steps can be taken:

Transparent Data Practices: Companies developing AI tools must disclose how training datasets are sourced and ensure that copyrighted material is used ethically.
Legal Protections: Governments should update copyright laws to address issues specific to AI-generated works.
Fair Attribution: Systems should be developed to credit original artists whose work contributes to training datasets.
Bias Mitigation: Developers must prioritize diversity and inclusivity in dataset curation.
Educational Initiatives: Artists should be educated on how to use AI tools responsibly and effectively while preserving their unique creative voice.

AI-generated art represents both an exciting frontier and a complex ethical landscape. By addressing these concerns thoughtfully, we can ensure that this technology enriches artistic expression without undermining the integrity of human creativity or fairness in the art world.

•   https://yaledailynews.com/blog/2023/01/23/what-ai-art-means-for-society-according-to-yale-experts/      
•   https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/emerging-technologies-collaborative/blog/2023/embracing-creativity-how-ai-can-enhance-the-creative-process.html      
•   https://medium.com/@easy.ai.beginner/where-to-post-your-ai-artwork-for-maximum-exposure-bc59390d4062           
•   https://www.airbrush.ai/uses-of-ai-art-for-social-media-posts/

Posted on April 8, 2025April 8, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Blondie Drummer Clem Burke Dies at 70

Clem Burke, the longtime drummer for Blondie, passed away on April 7, 2025, at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer. The band announced his death in a heartfelt statement, describing him as “the heartbeat of Blondie” and praising his unmatched talent, energy, and passion for music

Born Clement Anthony Bozewski on November 24, 1954, Burke joined Blondie in the mid-1970s and remained an integral part of the band throughout its career. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Blondie in 2006

Clem Burke Influence on Music
Clem Burke, the drummer for Blondie, was a pivotal figure in shaping the sound and success of the New Wave movement. Known for his versatility and dynamic drumming style, Burke’s contributions transcended genres, influencing disco, punk, reggae, and even early hip-hop. Below is an exploration of his career and impact on music.
Role in Blondie and the New Wave Movement
Burke joined Blondie in 1975, shortly after its formation, and remained a core member throughout the band’s career. His energetic drumming style provided the backbone for Blondie’s diverse sound, which blended punk rock with disco, reggae, and hip-hop influences. Tracks like “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” “The Tide Is High,” and “Rapture” showcased his ability to adapt to different styles while maintaining a distinctive flair[1][2][3].
Rolling Stone recognized Burke as one of the 100 Greatest Drummers of All Time, citing his sharp backbeat and Keith Moon-inspired energy as key elements that set Blondie apart from its contemporaries[1]. His work on songs like “Dreaming” (1979) demonstrated his rapid and powerful drumming style, solidifying his reputation as a versatile musician[3].
Collaborations Beyond Blondie
Burke’s influence extended beyond Blondie. During periods when the band was disbanded, he collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, Bob Dylan, Nancy Sinatra, Pete Townshend, and the Eurythmics[4][5]. He briefly played with the Ramones under the moniker “Elvis Ramone,” although his loose drumming style did not align with their rigid approach[4][5]. These collaborations highlighted his adaptability and ability to enhance various musical styles.
Pioneering Contributions
Burke’s drumming was instrumental in pushing boundaries within popular music:
• Disco: His rhythms on Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” helped bridge punk rock with disco.
• Reggae: Tracks like “The Tide Is High” showcased his ability to incorporate Caribbean influences.
• Hip-Hop: “Rapture” is widely regarded as one of the first mainstream songs to feature rap elements[2][3].
His contributions were not limited to studio recordings; Burke’s vibrant stage presence made him a fashion icon within Blondie. Known for his tailored suits and mod hairstyle, he brought a show-business flair that enhanced Blondie’s mainstream appeal[4].
Legacy
Burke’s impact on music is enduring. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside Blondie in 2006 after selling over 42 million records. His drumming style has been studied for its physical intensity; he even participated in research that demonstrated drummers exert themselves similarly to professional athletes[6].
In addition to his musical achievements, Burke’s influence extended to inspiring other musicians. Debbie Harry described him as the “heartbeat of Blondie,” emphasizing how his energy and passion shaped the band’s success[1][6]. His legacy continues through Blondie’s music catalog and the many lives he touched during his career.
Clem Burke passed away on April 7, 2025, at age 70 after battling cancer. His contributions to music remain timeless, cementing him as one of rock’s most versatile and influential drummers[1][2][6].
⁂

•   https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/clem-burke-blondie-drummer-dead-obituary-1235311703/    
•   https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/07/arts/music/clem-burke-dead.html   
•   https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/clem-burke-multifaceted-drummer-iconic-rock-group-blondie-120583467    
•   https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/clem-burke-blondie-tribute-1235312442/   
•   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clem_Burke  
•   https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1wd0qvx2gvo

Posted on April 4, 2025April 8, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

Banksy’s “Laugh Now” Artwork Theft: Art Crime Strikes Belfast Gallery

The recent theft of a valuable Banksy print from a Belfast gallery highlights the continuing allure and black market demand for the anonymous street artist’s work. A signed limited edition of the iconic “Laugh Now” print, valued at £95,000, was stolen from a gallery at Lanyon Quay in Belfast, with two men subsequently appearing in court charged with the theft.

The Theft and Court Proceedings

Two Belfast residents, Adil Hajjaj, 49, and Ahmed Bouazzi, 39, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court accused of stealing the valuable Banksy print on Wednesday. According to court proceedings, the theft involved a calculated approach where Bouazzi allegedly distracted a lone gallery employee while Hajjaj removed the artwork and placed it in a shopping bag[2]. Police apprehended both men approximately 20 minutes later on the Ormeau Road, recovering the artwork from a bag carried by Bouazzi[2].

The court’s decision reflected differing assessments of the two defendants. District Judge Steven Keown denied bail to Hajjaj, citing an “unmanageable” risk of reoffending, and remanded him in custody until May 2nd. Bouazzi, however, was granted bail with the condition that he not enter the gallery[2]. Interestingly, the defense solicitor for Hajjaj claimed his client was unaware of the artwork’s significant value, arguing that such a recognizable piece would be “too hot to handle” on the black market[2].

The Investigation and Recovery

The swift recovery of the artwork demonstrates the challenges thieves face when attempting to profit from stealing high-profile art. Recognizable works by famous artists often prove difficult to resell due to their notoriety and the close-knit nature of the legitimate art market. In this case, police were able to quickly identify and apprehend the suspects based on descriptions provided after the theft[2].

The “Laugh Now” Artwork: History and Significance

The stolen artwork represents one of Banksy’s most recognizable and culturally significant creations. “Laugh Now” first emerged in 2002 as a commissioned six-meter-long stenciled mural for the Ocean Rooms nightclub in Brighton, featuring ten monkeys in a line[3]. The original mural provided the template for later reproductions, including the limited edition prints released in 2003[5].

Artistic Elements and Symbolism

The artwork depicts a monochrome chimpanzee with slumped shoulders and downcast demeanor, wearing a sandwich board bearing the ominous message: “Laugh now, but one day we’ll be in charge”[3][5]. While the majority of the image features clean, stenciled lines characteristic of Banksy’s style, the primate’s feet dissolve into dripping paint, reminiscent of wet ink on spray-painted murals[3].

The somber monkey with its provocative message has been interpreted as a powerful commentary on oppression and potential uprising. Art critics suggest it predicts that the downtrodden will eventually rise against their tormentors, possibly referencing the mistreatment of primates by humans for entertainment or scientific testing[3][5]. The piece brilliantly balances provocative social commentary with dark humor, a hallmark of Banksy’s approach[5].

Editions and Valuation

The “Laugh Now” print exists in several editions:

150 signed prints
600 unsigned prints
69 artist’s proofs[3][5]

The stolen print, valued at £95,000, was one of the signed limited editions, highlighting the significant market value that Banksy’s work commands in today’s art market[2]. The artwork’s authenticity is certified by Pest Control, Banksy’s verification service[5].

Banksy: The Anonymous Art Phenomenon

Banksy began his career spray-painting buildings in Bristol, England, and has evolved into one of the world’s most recognized and influential contemporary artists[4]. Despite his global fame and the multi-million-dollar values attached to his work, Banksy has maintained his anonymity throughout his career, adding to his mystique and appeal[4][6].

Distinctive Style and Recurring Themes

Animals frequently appear as motifs throughout Banksy’s work, often serving as vehicles for commentary on society and humanity’s place within it[5]. The chimpanzee in “Laugh Now” joins other popular animal-centered works like “Love Rat,” “Barcode,” and “HMV”[5]. His art consistently features dark humor, satire, and subversive epigrams that deliver concise yet powerful social or political commentary[6].

Record-Breaking Auction Prices

Banksy’s works have achieved remarkable prices at auction. In 2021, his self-shredding artwork “Love is in the Bin” (formerly “Girl With Balloon”) sold for a record £18.5 million ($25.4 million) at Sotheby’s in London[4]. This followed the famous 2018 auction where the artwork self-destructed immediately after being sold, in what many considered the “ultimate Banksy artwork”[4].

Conclusion

The theft of the “Laugh Now” print in Belfast represents more than just a crime against a gallery; it highlights the enduring cultural and financial value of Banksy’s art. The irony of stealing an artwork that itself comments on power dynamics and oppression is not lost in this situation. As Banksy’s works continue to appreciate in value and cultural significance, they remain targets for theft despite their recognizability, making them difficult to resell.

The chimpanzee’s foreboding message—”Laugh now, but one day we’ll be in charge”—continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, speaking to power imbalances and the potential for dramatic social change. As this case proceeds through the legal system, it serves as a reminder of art’s power to provoke, inspire, and maintain value even in an ever-changing cultural landscape.

Sources
[1] image.jpg https://pplx-res.cloudinary.com/image/upload/v1743781831/user_uploads/ypVIYabNEkeOjtJ/image.jpg
[2] c5yrdpkn406o.amp https://www-bbc-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5yrdpkn406o.amp
[3] 10 Facts About Banksy’s Laugh Now | MyArtbroker https://www.myartbroker.com/artist-banksy/10-facts/10-facts-about-banksys-laugh-now
[4] Banksy artwork that self-shredded sells for record $25.4 million at auction https://www.cbsnews.com/news/banksy-love-is-in-the-bin-shredded-artwork-sells-record-25-4-million-auction/
[5] Buy Banksy Laugh Now | Meaning & History | Andipa Editions https://andipaeditions.com/laugh-now-by-banksy/
[6] Banksy – 20th Century & Contemporary Art Evening Sale in Association with Poly Auction Hong Kong Tuesday, June 8, 2021 | Phillips https://www.phillips.com/detail/banksy/HK010121/22
[7] Shredded Banksy artwork sells for $25.4 million at auction https://www.pbs.org/newshour/arts/shredded-banksy-artwork-sells-for-25-4-million-at-auction
[8] Art Theft Statistics (2025): Startling Reality Revealed – Smart Locks Guide https://smartlocksguide.com/art-theft-statistics/
[9] How thieves sell stolen art https://www.startribune.com/how-thieves-sell-stolen-art/175655141
[10] Stolen artworks harder to recover amid rise in ransom demands, lawyers warn https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2023/09/23/stolen-artworks-harder-recover-amid-rise-ransom-demands/
[11] 10 infamous art thefts that kept the world guessing https://www.standard.co.uk/culture/stolen-art-famous-painting-thefts-a4002906.html
[12] 2 Men Are Charged With Stealing a Famous Banksy Artwork https://time.com/7021143/2-men-charged-with-stealing-banksy-artwork-london/
[13] Laugh Now (10), 2002 – Banksy Explained https://banksyexplained.com/laugh-now-2002-7/
[14] Laugh now but one day hi-res stock photography and images – Alamy https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/laugh-now-but-one-day.html
[15] Laugh Now, 2003 – Banksy Explained https://banksyexplained.com/laugh-now-2003/
[16] Tracking recent trends in the International market for art theft https://www.academia.edu/96059729/Tracking_recent_trends_in_the_International_market_for_art_theft
[17] The Black Market For Stolen Art http://www.oneincomedollar.com/2019/05/the-black-market-for-stolen-art.html
[18] What It Takes to Recover a Stolen Work of Art https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-what-it-takes-to-recover-a-stolen-work-of-art
[19] The Art of Banksy Humour—Satire, Spray Paint & the Politics Beneath the Punchline https://maddoxgallery.com/news/421-the-art-of-banksy-humour-and-politics/
[20] These Banksy prints have just fetched more than £400,000 at auction https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/banksy-prints-sell-for-ps435-000-at-auction-10011789.html
[21] Laugh Now by Banksy Background & Meaning | MyArtBroker https://www.myartbroker.com/artist-banksy/series-laugh-now
[22] Shredded Banksy Artwork Sells for $25.4 Million at Auction https://www.nbcboston.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/shredded-banksy-artwork-sells-for-25-4-million-at-auction/2516982/?os=vbLhPdr7HY
[23] Laugh Now, 2006 – Banksy Explained https://banksyexplained.com/laugh-now-2006/
[24] Laugh Now, 2000 – Banksy Explained https://banksyexplained.com/laugh-now-2000/
[25] Phillips Auction House to Accept Crypto for Banksy Artwork Sale https://www.coindesk.com/business/2021/05/07/phillips-auction-house-to-accept-crypto-for-banksy-artwork-sale
[26] A Guide to Banksy’s Monkeys | Guide | MyArtBroker https://www.myartbroker.com/artist-banksy/guides/a-guide-to-banksys-monkeys
[27] Laugh Now | Banksy | 2022 | Sotheby’s https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2022/banksy-2/laugh-now-2
[28] Banksy | Laugh Now (2005) | Artsy https://www.artsy.net/artwork/banksy-laugh-now-97
[29] FACES OF ART: “Laugh now but one day we’ll be in charge”. Modern social problems in Banksy’s art https://www.europub.co.uk/articles/faces-of-art-laugh-now-but-one-day-well-be-in-charge-modern-social-problems-in-banksys-art-A-52908
[30] Buyer of $1.4 million Banksy painting describes her reaction when it self-destructed https://www.cbsnews.com/news/banksy-painting-shredded-buyer-describes-her-reaction-when-artwork-self-destructed-at-auction/
[31] Legendary Art Theft Cases We Cannot Forget | Widewalls https://www.widewalls.ch/magazine/art-theft-cases
[32] Suspended prison sentence and €30,000 fine for Banksy theft in Paris https://www.euronews.com/culture/2024/06/20/suspended-prison-sentence-and-30000-fine-for-banksy-theft-in-paris
[33] How technology is changing the way we tackle art theft | Apollo Magazine https://www.apollo-magazine.com/how-technology-is-changing-the-way-we-tackle-art-theft/
[34] The art market: A victim of its own success https://courier.unesco.org/en/articles/art-market-victim-its-own-success
[35] In Art Recovery, Cash May Be the Deciding Factor https://observer.com/2023/11/in-art-recovery-cash-may-be-the-deciding-factor/
[36] The 10 most infamous art thefts and heists of all time https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/the-10-infamous-art-thefts-of-all-time/
[37] Gallery manager ‘horrified’ by theft of Banksy artwork https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/london-banksy-kingston-crown-court-police-metropolitan-police-b1181940.html
[38] Art and crime – the dark side of the antiquities trade https://www.euronews.com/business/2022/04/13/art-and-crime-the-dark-side-of-the-antiquities-trade
[39] Finding Buyers for Stolen Art https://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=235770&page=1
[40] Top Ten Art Thefts https://journals.library.columbia.edu/index.php/lawandarts/announcement/view/237
[41] Banksy’s Bataclan mural was stolen, now the thieves are facing trial https://www.euronews.com/culture/2022/06/08/thieves-who-stole-banksy-s-bataclan-mural-go-on-trial-in-paris
[42] From Rarity To Illegality: Delving Into The Black Market For Antiques https://financialcrimeacademy.org/black-market-for-antiques/

Posted on March 28, 2025March 28, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

New Music Friday: March 28th Playlist!

New Music Friday this week’s playlist, “03-28-2025,” is an exciting smorgasbord of tunes from every corner of the music universe, making sure there’s a glittering gem for everyone! Whether you’re hunting for high-energy bangers to jumpstart your weekend party, soothing sounds to blissfully unwind your evenings, or a dash of fresh beats to spice up your playlist, this collection has it all waiting for you!

Playlist mood: Instrumental and Electronic Obscure songs
Top Genre: Electronic
Top sub-genre: techno

03 28 2025

Art Form – Robert Hood
Neon Highways – Borna Libertines
Celestial Gate – SKIY
Inside Acid – Borna Libertines
DOA (From “Death of a Unicorn”) – St. Vincent
Inside My Mind – Borna Libertines
Elements of Dance – Mha Iri,AVAO
Tengo Lo Que Tengo (Album Version) – Borna Libertines
Fever – ASY*S
Digital Destination – Borna Libertines
Gesamtklärwerk Deutschland – Meese X Hell,DJ Hell,Jonathan Meese
Electric Horizon – Borna Libertines
La sandunga – Deborah de Luca
A Darkness (Album Version) – Borna Libertines
The Power of Miracles – Spiral Deluxe,Jeff Mills,Gerald Mitchell,Yumiko Ohno,Kenji Hino
Memory Leak – Borna Libertines
Rip The Keys – Luke Slater Reassembly – Planetary Assault Systems,Luke Slater
New York’s Burning Remix – Borna Libertines
Shark Brain (feat. Shygirl) – Eartheater,Shygirl
Some Days I Am Waking Up – Borna Libertines
Silent Sister – The Horrors
The Universe Stop – Borna Libertines
Stay With Me – Juliet Fox,WarinD
Traffic Light Bully – Borna Libertines

Apple Music

Posted on March 22, 2025March 22, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

New Music Friday: March 21th Playlist!

New Music Friday this week’s playlist, “03-21-2024,” is a diverse collection of tracks spanning various genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for upbeat anthems to kickstart your weekend, chill vibes for a relaxed evening, or something entirely new to expand your musical horizons, you’ll find it here.

How to Listen:

Click the link below to access my “02-21-2025” playlist on Apple Music:

Anxiety – Original Mix – Avis Vox,ASY*S
Neon Highways – Borna Libertines
Dune – Indira Paganotto
Inside My Mind – Borna Libertines
Evocation – Kölsch,ANNA
Digital Destination – Borna Libertines
Explorer – Adam Beyer
Inside Acid – Borna Libertines
It’s The Hope That Kills You – The WAEVE,Graham Coxon,Rose Elinor Dougall
Tengo Lo Que Tengo (Album Version) – Borna Libertines
I Walk Alone – Radio Edit – Stylo,Space Motion,Amethy
Electric Horizon – Borna Libertines
LA Runaway – The Horrors
Some Days I Am Waking Up – Borna Libertines
Lucid Delusion – Alievski
A Darkness (Album Version) – Borna Libertines
Nero – Deborah de Luca
Tengo Lo Que Tengo – Ilse Remix – Borna Libertines,Ilse
Nothing to dare – Bitinjuice, Tempiinversi
New York’s Burning Remix – Borna Libertines
Turn Up – Kaspar
Traffic Light Bully – Borna Libertines

Posted on March 22, 2025March 26, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

George Stinney: A Tragic Tale of Racial Injustice

George Stinney Jr. was only 14 years old when he was executed in 1944, becoming the youngest American in the 20th century to be sentenced to death and executed with a confirmed date of birth. His story is a stark reminder of racial bias and failures within the justice system.

The Crime and Conviction

In March 1944, Betty June Binnicker, 11, and Mary Emma Thames, 8, were found murdered in Alcolu, South Carolina. The victims were white. Stinney, a young African American boy, was quickly arrested.

Background: Alcolu was a segregated town, with limited interaction between white and black residents.
The Arrest and “Confession”: Stinney and his older brother were arrested. His brother was released, but George was held. He was questioned without his parents or a lawyer present and allegedly confessed to the murders. This confession was the primary evidence against him.
The Trial: The trial was held just a month after the murders. Stinney was provided with a court-appointed counsel who did little to defend him. The all-white jury deliberated for only ten minutes before finding him guilty.
The Sentence: Judge Philip H. Stoll sentenced Stinney to death by electrocution.

A Flawed Process

Several factors point to the injustice of Stinney’s conviction:

Lack of Due Process: Stinney was interrogated without legal representation or parental supervision.
Inadequate Defense: His court-appointed lawyer presented a weak defense.
Racial Bias: The racially charged atmosphere of the time likely influenced the outcome of the trial.
Age: The execution of a 14-year-old was an incredibly harsh sentence, even in the Jim Crow South.

Execution and Aftermath

George Stinney was executed on June 16, 1944. He was so small for the electric chair that a Bible was used as a booster seat.

Reopening the Case

Decades later, renewed interest in the case led to re-examining the evidence.

Motives for Reopening: Historians, lawyers, and civil rights groups began to question the fairness of the trial and the validity of the conviction.
Vacated Conviction: In 2014, Judge Carmen Mullen vacated Stinney’s conviction, ruling that he had not received a fair trial and that his Sixth Amendment rights had been violated.

Lingering Doubts and Alternate Suspects

While Stinney’s family and supporters celebrated the overturning of his conviction, some relatives of the victims maintain his guilt. After Stinney’s exoneration, George Washington Burke Jr. has been the subject of speculation as a possible suspect for the murders.

Lessons Learned

The George Stinney case serves as a chilling example of how racial prejudice and a flawed legal system can lead to tragic consequences. It highlights the importance of due process, adequate legal representation, and the need to address systemic biases within the criminal justice system.

Citations:

Posted on March 16, 2025March 22, 2025 by Borna Libeertines

New Music Friday: Dive into My March 14th Playlist!

New Music Friday,Friday is here, and you know what that means: a fresh batch of incredible new music! I’ve been busy curating a playlist of the most exciting releases from this week, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

New Music Friday this week’s playlist, “03-14-2025,” is a diverse collection of tracks spanning various genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for upbeat anthems to kickstart your weekend, chill vibes for a relaxed evening, or something entirely new to expand your musical horizons, you’ll find it here.

This week, I’m really feeling the blend of indie pop and electronic sounds, with a few surprising hip-hop and alternative rock tracks sprinkled in.

How to Listen:

Click the link below to access my “03-14-2025” playlist on Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/03-14-2025/pl.u-kv9lKDatX1j0Rx

Neon Highways – Borna Libertines
Dreamstate – Kelly Lee Owens
Inside My Mind– Borna Libertines
Eternal – The WAEVE
DEEP
Digital Destination – Borna Libertines
Say Hello – Deep Dish
Electric Horizon – Borna Libertines
Sis For – Sextile
Inside Acid – Borna Libertines
surrender2me – Elkka
Tengo Lo Que Tengo – Borna Libertines
This Conversation – Mark Pritchard & Tho…
A Darkness – Borna Libertines
X12 – Marcel Dettmann
Memory Leak – Borna Libertines