Hi Friend: One of UK’s most exciting new artists set for The Sidings exhibition

Art and fashion aficionados have a month to snap up the debut collection of one of the UK’s most exciting artists as he showcases his works here at The Sidings.

Mason Newman, the 24 year old Birmingham-born street artist exploring the realms of celebrity, sex, wealth and mass consumerism through his own perspective and that of his character, Gyal, is launching his debut ‘Hi Friend’ Exhibition from February 3 through to February 29. 

The artist, who counts singer Madonna and clothing designer Ed Hardy as collaborative projects, will transform three large spaces in The Sidings into his own vision and offer fans the opportunity to view his work, teaming up with creative hub Hyper Hyper.

The artwork available to buy includes 37 canvas pieces, 100 one-dollar bills and a limited merchandise collection, including debut homeware.

Mason Newman has been described by Wonderland Magazine as a ‘trailblazing street artist’ and has  collaborated with Madonna on the musician’s Material Girl fashion collection, and produced 40 handpainted pieces for the Ed Hardy label. He navigates the themes of his work through the lens of his character Gyal, with an ever-present focus on the eyes. 

Mason Newman said: “Hi Friend is an introduction to my works and style. To have my debut exhibition here in The Sidings, Waterloo is cool. I’ve always said the internet is my version of “Shakespeare’s Globe theatre” with this being a 20-minute walk away feels like a weird manifestation, Hi Friend is my Romeo and Juliet.

On January 30 Mason painted a mural in the iconic arches, next to a piece by the legendary Blek Le Rat. Due to be protected to stand the test of time it, becomes only the second piece of work after Blek le Rat to receive such treatment.