Maggie Murphy takes a wander around London’s East End finding many examples of London’s vibrant street art scene along the way.
London has always been a global city full of creativity and culture. This is evident in its museums as well as its streets. Famous street artists from all over the world have been coming to London for years to show their unique point of view and engage the public. The greatest part about these pieces is that there is no queue or ticket to see them! The best area to go for street art, in my opinion, is the East End. Between Shoreditch and Spitalfields you will encounter some of the most amazing street art in the world….
1. London-based artist INSA’s colorful geometric patterns stands in contrast to a portrait done by protégées artist Alexander Faro aka Vhils in Shoredich. Vhils actually uses a drill to remove bits of the wall he is working on.
2. Stik, once homeless on the streets of London, is now one of the city’s most celebrated artists.
3. French artist C215 does a portrait of his daughter down a small alleyway.
4. One of UK artist Phlegm’s striking characters.
5. An original Banksy (now hidden behind a plastic cover) in Shoreditch.
6. French artist Invader has hit the streets of London once again, decorating the walls with his small, colorful mosaics. This particularly large one appeals to Star Wars fans everywhere.
7. Belgian graffiti artist Road has several of his distinctive animals all over the city.
8. Ben Seine is known for his colorful letters, words and phrases. Head to Middlesex Street after all the shops have closed to see his famous “alphabet street.” Keep an eye out for his cross over to high fashion as well; Ben Eine has designed a scarf for the latest Louis Vitton collection. Do you think this is selling out or validation of the craft?
Only time will tell if these gorilla artist will be the great artist of our generation but one thing is for sure…. they definitely make you think.