Loretto is a pseudonymous street artist known for his unconventional and satirical graffiti art,[1][2] displayed on the streets of London.[3][4][5] Operating under a deliberate shroud of anonymity, has gained attention for his unique style, blending humor, social commentary, and political satire.[2][6]

Biography

Details regarding Loretto's personal background remain undisclosed.[7][4] Active for the last decade, Loretto's work began to capture media attention approximately eight years ago, with appearances in various publications like the Mail Online and New York Post. The artist also made an appearance on Quest Means Business, a renowned business news program broadcast on CNN.[6]

Artistic style

Loretto employs a distinctive stencil and spray paint technique to create thought-provoking and often humorous images.[3][8][4] The artist's canvas includes public spaces throughout London,[9] where they use vibrant colours and detailed outlines to convey a recognisable style.[4] Loretto's themes range from satirical depictions of political figures to explorations of human nature and psychology.[3][8]

Notable works

One of Loretto's most recognised pieces features a satirical portrayal of then Queen Elizabeth II in various unconventional poses, such as leaning against a post, wearing stockings, and smoking.[8] Another notable mural showcased leaders like Kim Jong-Un, Donald Trump, and Vladimir Putin forming the fictional supergroup "The Psychos."[3]

Secrecy and media attention

Loretto remains intentionally enigmatic, shying away from personal publicity.[1] The artist's anonymity has only added to the intrigue surrounding his work. Comparisons with renowned street artists like Banksy and Pegasus have surfaced,[10] highlighting Loretto's impact on London's street art scene.

Controversy and recognition

Loretto's art has not been without controversy. Murals depicting political figures,[11][12] including former Prime Minister Theresa May, Mayor Sadiq Khan and ex Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn,[12] have faced removal and criticism.[1]

Legacy

Loretto's legacy lies in his ability to engage the public through thought-provoking and visually striking street art.[11][12] The artist's satirical commentary on contemporary issues and political figures has left an impact on the London street art scene.[2]

References

  1. 1 2 3 "Seen Some Satirical Street Art? It's Probably Loretto". Londonist. 2018-03-13. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  2. 1 2 3 Kunisch, Simone (2021-03-08). "Londons street artists and their styles". totally-london.net. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  3. 1 2 3 4 "Banksy-style street art depicts Donald Trump as lead singer of "The Psychos"". Yahoo News. 2018-01-06. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  4. 1 2 3 4 Robbins, Antony (2020-11-25). "Pictures On Walls: Enjoying Street Art In London's Lockdown". Guide London. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  5. ↑ Limited, Alamy. "Loretto graffiti art hi-res stock photography and images". Alamy. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  6. 1 2 Graffiti artist Loretto paints a picture of Brexit, retrieved 2023-11-18
  7. ↑ Geraghty, Liam (2018-07-03). "The Big Issue is starring in Loretto's street art show". The Big Issue. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  8. 1 2 3 "Murals of Queen with tattoo and thigh-high stockings whitewashed for being 'offensive'". Camden New Journal. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  9. ↑ "Zelensky signs law declaring peace talks with Putin 'impossible'". 2022-10-04. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  10. ↑ Mezzofiore, Gianluca (2017-06-22). "Satirical Banksy-style mural shows Donald Trump as evolutionary misstep". Mashable. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  11. 1 2 "Street art of Russian and Ukrainian leaders appears in Kentish Town". Ham & High. 2022-07-12. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
  12. 1 2 3 "Jeremy Corbyn appears as St Francis of Assisi". Fitzrovia News. 2017-06-07. Retrieved 2023-11-18.
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