Prolific artists Opake and Slawn unite for Big Issue takeover

Leading artist Opake has guest edited a special edition of the Big Issue, out today (Monday 15 September).

Opake, who is best known for his sideways takes on well-known cartoon characters including Winnie the Pooh and Mickey Mouse, has curated other leading artists to contribute to this week’s magazine in a ‘celebration of the outsider’.

Contributors include the Nigerian designer and artist Olaolu Slawn, who has collaborated with Opake to create an exclusive collector’s print, free with the magazine, which brings together their distinct signature styles for the first time.

Fellow cartoonist-artist Will Blood, self-taught star Charlotte Rose and the graffiti artist FATSO have also given unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to Big Issue, inviting them into their studios to see their extensive back catalogue of work.

Opake’s takeover also profiles some of the art world’s most exciting rising stars, including Soldier and Suto.

Big Issue guest editor Opake said: “What does the Big Issue represent? Well to me they stand for the underdog, the downtrodden and forgotten, and they do a f*cking good job of helping the people who need it the most. I can say that because that was me.

“I would still consider myself an underdog, and I think everyone I’ve curated in this magazine has that element to them which makes me love them and what they do even more. I feel honoured to have been asked to showcase some artists who I think are excellent and deserve everything that they have worked tirelessly for. Thank you Big Issue for your undeniable work and also giving this once-lost youth a voice.”

Paul McNamee, Big Issue’s UK Editor, said: “A thousand thanks to Opake for his incredible takeover this week.

“His remarkable spirit, his celebration of the outsider, and the positive impact Big Issue made on him, mean that the has delivered something completely unique. It bounces off the page.”

Opake’s takeover of the Big Issue is on sale now from vendors across the UK. You can also buy copies via the Big Issue Shop, with all proceeds going towards Big Issue’s mission to support people living in poverty.