The Cans Festival @ The Tunnel, Leake Street, London SE1 7NN

It seems in recent years that certain graffiti may finally be getting the recognition it deserves as a legitimate form of artistic expression by the establishment with the provision of legal designated sites to paint.

May this year saw a disused railway tunnel near London's Waterloo Station attract thousands of visitors after being transformed into a gallery of street art, curated by the critically acclaimed Banksy.

The British graffiti artist, whose identity is still a closely guarded secret, enlisted over 40 top like-mined street artists from around the world to transform the once gloomy underpass. Artist, Leon who had flown in especially from Los Angeles, but was born in London said, "It's traditional for graffiti artists to paint together, but it's never happened in Britain on this scale." Banksy's invitation surprised Argentinean artist Frederico (Run Don't Walk), "It happened really fast." He said, "They just told us our flights. It's great to meet people from all over the world to paint. This isn't some branded event, it isn't in a gallery, it's unique." Banksy, who contributed depictions of a self-harming hoody and the Buddha wearing a neck-brace, said: "I've always felt anyone with a paint can should have as much say in how our cities look as architects and ad men. So getting to cover an entire street with graffiti is a dream come true, or as some people might call it — a complete and utter nightmare."

Besides enjoying the artistic talent on view, visitors are also encouraged to add to the exhibition. In fact, anyone who brings a stencil is allowed to add their own design. Banksy said: "Graffiti doesn't always spoil buildings. In fact, it's the only way to improve a lot of them. In the space of a few hours with a couple of hundred cans of paint we transformed a dark, forgotten filth pit into an oasis of beautiful art — in a dark, forgotten filth pit."

As we know Leake Street isn't the only legal site set aside for painters, we want you to comment and add to this section of the site with your photos and videos to create an online gallery to showcase your talents (anonymously if necessary).

Comments (2)

Michaelx said:

	if i visit leake street will i still be able to see the graffiti?
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October 12, 2008
Votes: +1

critch said:

	Yes, Eurostar (the owners of the tunnel) liked what Banksy and co had originally done to brighten up the tunnel, and have agreed to let it stay open to the public to view and add to over the coming months. In fact, I use it as a short cut back to Waterloo station every time I'm in the city as I like to see the latest additions painters have made.
	report abuse vote down vote up

October 15, 2008
Votes: +0

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