Watch the experts or try out your own graffiti skills – where it’s legal in Waterloo

London Event Reviews by May B

A friend of mine, who has a professional day job in the City, used to be a leading light in the dark world of graffiti. He also devotes much of his spare time as a volunteer helping disadvantaged young people and sometimes tries to evoke a spark of interest in art amongst them.

He invited me yesterday to join him on a tour of the tunnel underneath Waterloo train station where there is an authorised graffiti space. If you’ve been to see theatrical productions or traditional art shows in “The Vaults” you will know the location of this space. If you haven’t, then you need to leave the station by exit 1 (near Platform 1), take a right and walk along a narrow pavement until you reach some steps. Descend into the darkness (I recommend that you take a companion).

The walls are astonishing. I don’t profess to be a graffiti expert but I could discern numerous styles. There’s plenty of the familiar lettering and tags that you see but there are also some incredible pieces that must count as modern artworks.

I met young (and no so young) people who are devoted to the art form – from London and as far away as San Francisco. There are, of course, some regulars. But they also welcome temporary visitors who want to make their mark. And beginners. The camaraderie was impressive. And of course I heard about the battle of Banksy and King Robbo.

There’s etiquette about what you can cover up with your new artwork. Some pieces only last half an hour whereas others have remained for as long as several months. Those who are busy working with their spray cans stop occasionally to chat with their companions. They’ll also answer questions from intrigued tourists and offer help to newbies. But ask before you take a photo of someone working.

Assuming the area is owned by Network Rail, it is an inspired move to make it OK to graffiti here. Maybe it’s an effort to reduce the incidence of illegal graffiti. But I hope that it was to encourage people to develop or demonstrate their skills and share their talent for street art.

Here’s a link to a video of graffiti at Leake Street Tunnel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQ4GiAnBpv4

You can find other legal walls in London here http://www.legal-walls.net/#lat=47.5378&lng=8.773270000000025&zoom=2

Posted Date
Aug 14, 2014 in London Event Reviews by May B by May B