Full Breakdown
Banksy’s Secret Marriage: A Las Vegas Ceremony Revealed
4/7/2026, 11:38:40 PM
The Wedding of Banksy and Joy Millward
Multimillionaire graffiti artist Banksy, whose real name is Robin Gunningham, married his longtime partner Joy Millward in a modest ceremony at the Chapel of the Bells in Las Vegas in January 2006. The wedding, which cost just $145, has come to light following the acquisition of their marriage certificate by The New York Post. The Chapel of the Bells, known for its quirky wedding options, has been hosting ceremonies since 1957 and allows walk-in couples to tie the knot in a variety of themed settings.
According to a staff member from the chapel, Banksy and Millward likely arrived without guests, utilizing the in-house witness for their ceremony. The chapel was performing between 40 to 70 weddings a week at that time, making individual memories difficult to recall. The standard package included the minister, background music, and chapel use, with optional extras such as a cake available for an additional fee.
Background on the Couple
Banksy and Millward reportedly met in 2003, shortly before she began working as a researcher for Labour MP Austin Mitchell. At the time of their marriage, the couple listed their residence as a small 336-square-foot apartment on Old Street in East London, which they purchased for £235,000 (approximately $313,000) in January 2003. The property was sold two decades later for £440,000 (around $587,000).
Millward has a background in political strategy and was involved in setting up Principle Affairs, a lobbying group for charities in the UK, in 2006. She stepped down as director of the organization in 2020.
Banksy’s Rise to Fame
In 2006, when Banksy married, his fame was rapidly increasing. He held his first major U.S. exhibition, "Barely Legal," in Los Angeles, and his artwork began to appreciate significantly in value. Notably, in 2021, his piece "Love is in the Bin," which had been partially shredded after its sale for $1.5 million, fetched $25.4 million at auction.
Criticism & Opposition
While the couple's choice of a low-cost wedding may seem modest, it contrasts sharply with Banksy's later commercial success and the high prices his artwork commands. Critics may argue that such a stark difference raises questions about authenticity and the commercialization of art.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In 2006 we were doing about 40 to 70 weddings a week, so memories are hazy,” — JR, Former Chapel Staff Member
- “If couples ordered photos, we just gave them a roll of film from the back of a camera to take home and process for themselves.” — JR, Former Chapel Staff Member
Conclusion
The revelation of Banksy’s marriage adds a personal layer to the enigmatic artist's public persona. The couple's choice of a simple Las Vegas wedding stands in contrast to Banksy's later artistic achievements and financial success, highlighting the complexities of identity and fame in the modern art world.
