On the Scene London: Locals talk about the latest trends in their city

For me, Brixton is the best neighborhood to express myself as an artist. I want to paint where London’s diversity shines. The multicultural community, the vibrant atmosphere, and the creative energy in Brixton inspire me every day.

I can recommend two places in the south of the city for those who not only want to see finished artworks but also watch artists at work: the Stockwell Hall of Fame and the Leake Street Tunnel. 

The Stockwell Hall of Fame is an old basketball court where artists can work legally. High-level graffiti is created here, and, occasionally, events are held as well. 

Since Banksy launched The Cans Festival exhibition in the Leake Street Tunnel in 2008, the place has become an important meeting point for the scene. Banksy invited other street artists to beautify the tunnel with graffiti, turning it into what it is today: a colorful space offering maximum artistic freedom. Graffiti artists from all over the world come here because, just like in the Stockwell Hall of Fame, spraying is legal in the Leake Street Tunnel – as long as you follow the rules. If you want to leave your mark in the tunnel but have no experience with graffiti, you can book a workshop and unleash your creativity right in the heart of London.

Neequaye Dreph Dsane (artist name Dreph) started doing street art at the age of eleven and is now an established artist. Based in London, he is known for his large-scale portraits of friends and people from the community.

1. Shoreditch and Brick Lane: hotspots for ever-changing murals and works by Banksy.  
2. Head to Camden Town with Hawley Wharf and Chalk Farm Road to marvel at colorful graffiti. 
3. The skate park Undercroft Skate Space near Waterloo Bridge is a meeting point for skaters and artists.  
4. The David Bowie mural in Brixton: book a guided street art tour for fascinating background stories.