Is Mr. Brainwash on a guerrilla art Oscar campaign?

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The unconventional film ‘Exit Through the Gift Shop,’ about mysterious British street artist Banksy, was nominated last week for an Oscar in the documentary category. Days following, a giant piece of street art appeared in Los Angeles near the corner of La Brea and San Vicente, at a spot often used by Mr. Brainwash, a.k.a. Thierry Guetta, the subject of Banksy’s film.

The art features a giant hoodied gold figure (that would be Banksy) in place of the usual Oscar, being guarded by a slew of ‘Star Wars’ stormtroopers. Now questions are being raised as to whether the mural is the work of Banksy or his wannabe acolyte, Mr. Brainwash. Fans of the doc can debate that question here, and see the artwork here. And come Feb. 27, we’ll get to see whether Banksy does, or doesn’t, show up for the ceremony at the Kodak Theatre.

-- Nicole Sperling