New Banksy artwork called Game Changer goes on display in hospital corridor as he thanks NHS staff for their work fighting coronavirus

A new creation by mysterious street artist Bansky has appeared at Southampton general hospital, paying tribute to NHS staff during the coronavirus pandemic.

Titled 'Game Changer,' the latest offered from the world renowned artist is almost a fully monochrome painting, depicting a young boy playing with toys.

As ever with the world of Banksy, a thought-provoking twist is added.

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Banksy's latest creation, 'Game Changer', has appeared at Southampton general hospital and pays tribute to the brave NHS frontline staff fighting the coronavirus pandemic

The youngster, wearing dungarees, can be seen playing with action figures. In a poignant gesture, however, Batman and Spiderman have been discarded in favour of an NHS nurse sporting a mask and cape.

Banksy's latest offering is to mark the brave work of the health service as the UK continues to battle the deadly virus and flatten the curve.

The only colour within the piece can be seen in the flash of red on the nurse's apron, marking the Red Cross of the health service.

The artist left a note for hospital workers, which read: 'Thanks for all you're doing. I hope this brightens the place up a bit, even if its only black and white.' 

Banksy then previewed the work to the world in usual fashion, by uploading an image of the finished piece to his official website, without explanation.

The painting will remain at Southampton General Hospital until the autumn when it will be auctioned to raise money for the NHS.

Staff and patients at the hospital are able to view the creation where it resides, on level C of the building. 

Paula Head, CEO of the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust told the BBC: 'Our hospital family has been directly impacted with the tragic loss of much loved and respected members of staff and friends.

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The world famous Banksy mural, The Girl with a Pierced Eardrum was recently fitted with a face mask during the Covid-19 crisis 

'The fact that Banksy has chosen us to recognise the outstanding contribution everyone in and with the NHS is making, in unprecedented times, is a huge honour. 

'It will be really valued by everyone in the hospital, as people get a moment in their busy lives to pause, reflect and appreciate this piece of art,' she added.

'It will no doubt also be a massive boost to morale for everyone who works and is cared for at our hospital.' 

Recently a blue surgical mask was placed over the graffiti artist's long-time standing piece 'The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum' in Bristol.

It depicts a take on Vermeer's famous Girl with a Pearl Earring, replacing the earring with an outdoor security alarm.