Notable Street Artists to Watch in East London's Scene
East London, a bustling hub of creativity, is renowned as one of the world's leading destinations for street art. The area, particularly neighbourhoods like Shoreditch, Spitalfields, and Brick Lane, serves as an ever-evolving outdoor gallery for both established and rising artists.
Some of the top street artists whose work can be found in East London include ROA, Stik, Borondo, Cranio, DalEast, Shepard Fairey (Obey), D*Face, Conor Harrington, and Invader. Known for their unique styles and thought-provoking pieces, these artists regularly update the neighbourhood’s walls, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
The Shoreditch, Spitalfields, and Brick Lane areas are the epicentre of East London's street art scene. To experience it, take a self-guided walk, starting at Old Spitalfields Market, and wander through Brick Lane and the surrounding streets. Pay special attention to alleys, side streets, and the rear of buildings—many of the best pieces are off the main roads.
Alternatively, join a guided street art tour led by knowledgeable locals. These tours offer insights into the history, techniques, and stories behind the art, and guides are adept at pointing out the latest pieces by top artists. Tours start at Old Spitalfields Market and typically last 1.5–3 hours.
Street art in East London is ephemeral—walls are regularly painted over, so even if you’ve visited before, there will be new works to discover. It’s common to see artists at work, especially during weekends or in good weather.
Key locations for major murals and installations include Hanbury Street, Rivington Street, Great Eastern Street, and the area around Redchurch Street. The Truman Brewery on Brick Lane often features several pieces.
For a richer, more informative experience, consider joining a tour. Tours are consistently lauded for their quality and are ideal for both newcomers and repeat visitors. Bring a camera—the vibrant, varied works are highly photogenic.
Remember, East London’s street art is a living culture. Admire, photograph, but don’t deface or damage the pieces. London's street art scene, particularly in East London, is a must-see for art lovers and urban explorers, offering an ever-shifting showcase of global and local talent at the forefront of contemporary urban art.
- For those interested in exploring the fashion-and-beauty aspect of East London, the vibrant street art would certainly complement one's lifestyle as a unique backdrop for streetwear photography.
- As you traverse the food-and-drink scene in East London, don't forget to pause and appreciate the home-and-garden-inspired artworks that adorn many walls, blending urban artistry with the surrounding architecture.
- Street artists in East London occasionally incorporate travelling themes into their work, serving as a subtle reminder of the global interconnectedness that permeates the very essence of lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden cultures worldwide.
