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.
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.