STIK, born in 1979 in the UK, is an anonymous graffiti artist who began painting during his time experiencing homelessness in London. Lacking formal artistic training, he developed his distinct style in the Hackney area, where he painted street art as a way of giving back to the community that helped him access housing. His work is a gift to the public, often reflecting themes of community and social issues.
One of his most famous pieces, A Couple Hold Hands in the Street (2010), was created in response to an attempted attack on Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks. The piece, depicting a Muslim woman holding hands with one of STIK’s trademark figures, became a symbol of unity and was embraced by the Muslim community. In 2017, it was voted as one of the UK’s favourite artworks.
By 2011, STIK was a well-known figure, with collectors such as Brian May and Bono. He held his first solo exhibition that year and collaborated with Dulwich Picture Gallery in 2012, recreating Old Master paintings in his own style. STIK is also committed to charitable causes, such as raising money for homelessness through his collaboration with The Big Issue in 2013.
In 2014, STIK painted Big Mother, a monumental mural on a social housing block in Acton, London, as a protest against the demolition of social housing. The piece became a symbol of resistance in the local community. STIK continues to create globally, using his art to advocate for social change and raise funds for causes close to his heart.
