A major street art exhibition in York - Rise of the Vandals by Bombsquad

Internationally renowned contemporary street artists are taking part in an exhibition over four floors of the disused office building on Low Ousegate, York one of the tallest buildings in the city and this weekend is the last time to be able to see it since it opened in June. 

This year, Bombsquad are working with SASH (Safe and Sound Homes) who are a youth homeless charity that offers emergency and longer-term housing to young people when they have nowhere else to go. They help young people aged 16-25 who are facing homelessness across York, North and East Yorkshire.  

The exhibition will showcase an exhibition of retrospective and contemporary spray paint culture, graffiti, street art and public art and will feature 3 galleries, a cinema room, an art shop and live DJ’s.  One floor will explore the history of Yorks graffiti scene to present day street art scene. Showcasing photography, video and press clippings from the exclusive archives of Keith Hopewell, alongside his new work.  Works by renowned artist, James Jessop, will be exhibiting 18 substantial canvases covering 3 decades of his work from his personal archives. 

Unleashing a whirlwind of colour, imagination and storytelling, the event will showcase the exceptional talent of internationally acclaimed artists such as Chu, James Jessop, Keith Hopewell, Rowdy, Kid Acne, Remi Rough, Prefab77, SODA, Replete, Jo Peel (who recently created the wall mural near Severus Hill, Holgate, York) and many more.  The event also sees a selection of highly talented local artists such as Sharon McDonagh, Lincoln Lightfoot and Boxxhead.  

The event shows the merging of artistic brilliance as this diverse group of artists, each bringing their own unique style and creative vision, pushes the boundaries of creativity to elevate your senses.  

A Bombsquad spokesperson said "the inspiration for Rise of the Vandals originated as many of the artists exhibiting are now reflecting back on their contribution to highly influencing the movement over the last 3-4 decades which needs to be documented and shared.   

The event will provide an interactive and engaging experience with opportunities for visitors to engage with artists, learn about an alternative history within our city and explore a wide selection of art and merchandise in our shop with proceeds going to SASH. Entry to the event is free but a donation will be encouraged.  

The event is free to enter and is open from 11am to 6pm on 5^th, 6^th, 7^th July at Low Ousegate, York.   

Aimee Harding, Fundraising Officer at SASH comments; “We are delighted and honoured to have been selected as Bombsquads chosen charity. Being involved in this event is a life-changing opportunity for our young people. As part of our SASH Enhancement Service, they are creating work for the event that will be showcased alongside world-renowned artists. Not only is it a fantastic experience for them but the vital funds raised from the event means SASH can help more young people in need who are facing homelessness”.