Chapter 5 Markets and Art Scene

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Brick Lane has historically been an area of poverty and immigration. However, the last twenty years the area has grown to cater to both tourists and a young, edgy, artistic crowd. Alongside the curry restaurants, Brick Lane has a number of trendy clubs, bars, and warehouses hosting art exhibitions. 93 Feet East is a club located on 150 Brick Lane and is well known for its eclectic mix of live music. Brick Lane has also been featured in music videos such as “Glory Days” by Just Jack and “All These Things That I’ve Done” by The Killers.

If you are here on a Sunday, the streets will be lined with people hawking their second-hand ware, people seeking bargains, and numerous street performers. Sunday is the day of the Brick Lane Market, which operates from 9am to 5pm. Otherwise known as the Truman Markets, this vast collection of venues, kiosks, and stalls are located on grounds of the Old Truman Brewery. Tourists from all over come to shop and take advantage of the bargains. Items usually include used clothing, furniture, and hand-made goods. It is events like these that have made Brick Lane such a sought after tourist destination. In recent years, the dramatic cultural shift in the area and the introduction of youth culture has greatly boosted the popularity and hipness of Brick Lane.

Brick Lane is also famous for its graffiti. Many of the walls and sides of buildings serve as a canvas for many aspiring artists. Some of the more famous names to leave their mark on the walls of Brick Lane include Ben Eine, D*Face, and Banksy. Bansky is world renowned for his satirical street art. He works primarily with stencils and his pieces usually have some sort of social commentary centering on anti-war, anti-capitalism, or anti-establishment themes.

If you are interested in seeing more art you can stop by Brick Lane’s numerous art galleries. Stolen Space (91 Brick Lane), The Brick Lane Gallery (196 Brick Lane), and East Gallery (214 Brick Lane) are three notable art galleries that strive to provide an environment that showcases local talent.

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