George the Dog, John the Artist exhibition in Shoreditch

The truest form of Street Art can be seen in the exhibition by John Dolan at the Howard Griffin Gallery on Shoreditch High Street.

True, because for the past three years John has been sitting in the same spot just over the road from the gallery, drawing the skyline and buildings of Shoreditch. Ever faithful by his side, his loyal companion George the Dog, instantly recognisable to workers and locals as he sits on the pavement patiently sitting whilst people walk by and John draws.

At one point homeless, John draws whilst sitting on the street. Not on walls or pavements or shutters or hoardings, he patiently produces his art whilst sat down in his regular spot. A Shoreditch local, he has seen many changes and the area evolve as new people move in, buildings come and go and habits and styles change. His journey has been a remarkable one. From rough sleeping to exhibiting his work alongside some of the worlds top street artists, the shows opening night attracted hoards of people lining the walls of Shoreditch High Street as they waited to get in.

Collaborating with the likes of Stik, RUN, Cityzen Kane, Martin Ron and Malarky the Howard Griffin Gallery has managed to curate a remarkable ensemble of some of the best street art talent around. The artists have added their own stamp to John’s Shoreditch skylines producing some unique and original work. Alongside the collaborations are original sketches of George and of the buildings directly in front of his regular spot. Each image is slightly different but all original.

As shows go this is unique, John’s history and his story aside, artists have collaborated from all over the globe to produce a unique series of works. In total over 35 artists have contributed to the show which must have been a feat in itself.

The show lasts until the 26th September so get along quick. In the meantime though, here are some snaps from the gallery and some of the art on display.

George the Dog, John the Artist is a show at the Howard Griffin Gallery on 189-190 Shoreditch High Street, it runs until 29th September.

For more information about the work of John and George try:

Little London Observationist – London Art Spot: John Dolan