Pichiavo 'In Gods We Trust' at the Unit Gallery in London • Inspiring City

Spanish duo Pichiavo are known for their combination of classical art and graffiti. They have created a series of works for their new show ‘In Gods we Trust’. This at the Unit Gallery in London’s Soho.

Their work is instantly recognisable. Drawn from ancient Greek and Roman influences. The heart of their pieces often feature classical statues more commonly seen in a museum. These are set against a graffiti backdrop. One which has its influence more in the New York subway graffiti scene of the 70’s and 80’s than ancient Rome or Athens. It’s this mix of influences which really sets this work apart. It gives any piece created by Pichiavo a unique feel.

In Gods We Trust

It also means that any show from this duo is anticipated. Judging from the queue outside the gallery to get in. This was something eagerly awaited for a while. It’s not often that you have to queue to get into a show hosted by a couple of street artists. But then it’s also not usual to have the opening night held in the middle of the expensive Soho district.

Inside the walls and the canvasses blend in together. Pichiavo have transformed the walls of this London gallery into one giant graffiti hall of fame. The buyers of the works will be buying one piece of a wider mural created in situ. Some of the pieces can be taken home but the rest will stay and be whitewashed over ready for the next show once this one finishes. It’s a nod to the nature of graffiti that it really isn’t meant to last.

Pichi & Avo

Their name is simply a conjoining of both artists own names Pichi and Avo. Also known as Juan Antonio Sanchez and Alvaro Hernandez. Collaborating together since 2007. They are from the Valencia area of Spain. Originally but have been painting around the world for many years. We last saw their work at Upfest which they painted in 2016. That has since gone and another piece produced for the Cities of Hope festival in Manchester has sadly also been painted over.

Now, in addition to the work on the walls of the gallery they’ve added a new street piece to London. You can see it on the street running behind the gallery on Berwick Street. They’ve painted in London before but not for a good while so it’s worth getting along to see that one before it goes.

‘In Gods We Trust’ by Pichiavo is showing at the Unit Gallery London on 147 Wardour Street from 11 August to 24 September 2017.