The Making of Sandra (part 1)
As part of my continuing collaboration with artist Ben Slow I was able to photograph a new piece of work in the making: a painting of the legendary queen of Spitalfields Sandra Esqulant. Using a photograph I took on the 25th anniversary of Sandra’s pub Ben is creating an urban shrine to Sandra just off Brick Lane and down the Road from her pub in Hanbury Street. The new work is opposite another painting by Ben.
Sandra in Ben's back pocket. Hanbury Street, London 2012
Ben prepared the surface (below) for his painting meticulously. Until now I didn’t realise the amount of preparation that went into the making of street art.
Ben preparing the surface of the wall for Sandra's image. Hanbury Street, London 2012
Ben Painting Sandra. Hanbury Street, London 2012
Ben’s paintings seem to grow out of their walls and leap out at you as you pass buy. His careful application of inks and other materials causes drips which give his work an organic feel. People seem to find it difficult to just walk buy and are forced to stop by the voices in the painting.
A passer buy discusses work in progress with Ben. London 2012
Ben painting Sandra. London 2012
Ben painting Sandra. London 2012
Ben with Sandra. London 2012
