Art enthusiasts in London now have the opportunity to experience one of the most comprehensive street art exhibitions through the lens of internationally acclaimed portrait photographer Søren Solkær. The exhibition, titled SURFACE, has opened at Sussex Mansions in South Kensington, featuring over 80 influential street artists from around the world. What makes this exhibition particularly special is the chance for visitors to experience guided tours led by Solkær himself on select dates.
SURFACE represents a global journey through urban creative hotspots, showcasing street art from major cities including London, New York, Paris, Berlin, and Miami. The exhibition features both legendary British artists such as Sweet Toof and Lucy McLauchlan, alongside international icons like Invader and Lady Aiko. Following successful runs in major cities like New York and Los Angeles, SURFACE is making its London debut, marking a significant moment for the city's art scene.
The exhibition goes far beyond a simple portrait series, with each image transforming urban spaces into dramatic, cinematic narratives. Solkær, a Danish photographer known for his iconic portraits of music stars including Amy Winehouse and Adele, has applied his signature style to capture some of the world's most secretive creative communities. The collection features powerful artists such as Shepard Fairey, famous for his OBEY brand and the Obama Hope poster, and Invader, renowned for his distinctive mosaic tile works.
The core of the SURFACE experience lies in Solkær's large-scale photographic portraits, which are heavily influenced by film and painting techniques. Each image is carefully staged with on-site lighting and strong storytelling elements, creating a striking, larger-than-life atmosphere. The artists are photographed alongside their work, often using masks or props, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the mysterious world of street art culture.
What sets this exhibition apart is the opportunity for visitors to go behind the lens with Solkær himself. On November 22-23 and December 8-9, guests can book guided tours where the photographer shares in-depth stories about the SURFACE exhibition. These special sessions include creative insights, technical details, and entertaining anecdotes from Solkær's experiences photographing these elusive artists. Participants can ask questions throughout the tour and have books signed at the end, making it a truly interactive experience.
The exhibition is housed at Sussex Mansions, the same central London venue that hosts Banksy's acclaimed exhibition, ensuring easy accessibility for art and photography enthusiasts. Located at 79-85 Old Brompton Road, the venue is just a short walk from South Kensington Underground Station, making it convenient for visitors from across London and beyond.
Tickets for SURFACE start from £14.53, with the exhibition running from November 17, 2025, with multiple dates available. However, availability is becoming limited, with only 14 tickets remaining for certain dates. The exhibition represents a unique opportunity to experience the distinctive blend of drama and intimacy that has made Solkær one of the most influential portrait photographers of his generation, while uncovering the secrets of some of the world's most prominent street artists.
