An artist has been spreading positivity across the capital by leaving witty cartoon messages scattered around the streets of London.
The creative who goes by the name @beakandsqueak on Instagram, and wishes to remain anonymous, started the quirky project six weeks ago.
So far, over 300 quotes have been written in chalk on the streets of locations including Chelsea and London Bridge, which have sparked a smile-filled scavenger hunt on Instagram.
The quotes play into the complexity of human emotions by making light of people’s feelings.
“I think that I’ve found something with the street art that people can appreciate,” the artist told the Londoners.
“I just like to poke fun at all the contradictions I can think of: love, politics, emotions, relationships. It can all be contradictory.
“I like the thought that you can read my stuff and agree or disagree, and someone else can come across it and do the same. And that’s okay.
“We’re all contradictory. I think that’s okay. I think it will reduce stress.”
The messages have struck a chord with many who have seen them, including digital content creator, Sophie Bux, 21.
“I think people notice what interests them,” she said.
“I liked the concept itself. I love to accidentally come across inscriptions in which everyone can find meaning for themselves.”
Elaborating on the inspiration for their work, the artist said: “I think too many people are worried about being hypocrites or changing their minds.
“We’re allowed to change our minds, we’re allowed to have opinions on both sides.
“I think we’re more complicated than that. I think we’re walking contradictions.”
The messages have also garnered interest internationally, with the artist spreading messages in Berlin, Madrid and Krakow.
“I want to keep travelling and I’m going to keep writing them wherever I go. In a few months, you will probably see them in new places,” the artist said.
“When you see them, you are reading one of a kind.”
Featured image credit: Madigan Gallagher
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