Street artists from all around the world are putting their stamp on The Big Issue this week as we launch a special edition with guest editor and celebrated London artist Ben Eine.
He’s a long-time friend of The Big Issue, editor Paul McNamee said – not least because he shares the belief that “those at the bottom are to be as valued as those at the top, that they need a hand UP, not a handout”.
Vendors are hitting the streets with the exclusive 52-page magazine showcasing artwork contributed by more than 60 high-profile global street artists including Pure Evil, Obey, Lauren YS and Vhils.
Not only that, but Eine has created three very special – and hugely collectable – front covers on the theme of UP, to coincide with the Big Issue mantra of ‘a hand up, not a hand out’.
Each eye-catching design carries a version of his signature typography and will be available in a small run of limited edition prints – with a percentage of sales going directly to The Big Issue to support the fight against poverty.
![ben eine covers art special](https://www.bigissue.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ben-eine-covers.jpg?w=600)
Much of the artwork featured in the magazine will go on show at an exhibition at Jealous Gallery, Shoreditch, London, from March 12-22. The artists are collaborating with Ben Eine’s creative studio OurTypes and exhibiting their work for sale. The majority of these profits will also go to The Big Issue.