The work of Banksy, the pseudo-anonymous English graffiti artist is being shown in New York. It kicked off today and runs until December 29th at the Vanina Holasek Gallery in Chelsea.

Banksy is the man who’s best known for his controversial work, which has achieved more of a cult following among the street artists stenciling community. His form of expression, while limited to the best walls in town, also seeped into mainstream culture with his unique treatment of Paris Hilton’s debut CD. And he’s been credited with doing all this, while he remains incognito, or at least tries to.

So, after all this, it was not surprising to see so many people lined up to catch his work on the opening day, inspite of the first early snowfall and biting cold. It’s a smallish art gallery, and that while that means packed crowds, I think its worth a visit to see all his work.

Most of his famous work is lined up for sale, including the controversial screen print of the £10 notes where the Queen’s head has been replaced by Princess Diana’s, and the famous Girl With A Heart Balloon (if you have $50,000, it’s yours).

Meanwhile, I think the organizers could have done New York in true Banksy style - by either creating art around the neighborhood of the gallery, or by just displaying his work somewhere in the open, which is so uniquely Banksy.

Nevertheless, I think it’s a must visit. I might pop by again just to take in the atmosphere. Seeing some great art in a small 10X10 duplex apartment (you actually pass the kitchen going to the top floor) gives it a very “Only In New York” feel. So, stop by and take it in while you can. You never know if and when you might actually run into Banksy in there.

There are a few more pictures here.