Although people often exaggerate about how bad London weather is, the city did live up to its reputation on Friday, October 1st when hit by repeated rain showers.  It was one of those grim and miserable days where even locals armed with umbrellas lose the will to fight.  They simply resign themselves to the fate bestowed upon them of damp clothing, wet shoes and socks, and a squishing sound made with each footstep.

Resisting the temptation that evening to just go straight home, lie down and listen to Joy Division, AM opted instead to join the intrepid enthusiasts who braved the elements and headed over to Pictures On Walls for the launch of the new book by Tristan Manco‘Street Sketchbook: Journeys’ explores the creative journeys artists take in the development of their ideas.  Along with now-familiar names within the street art community like Roa, Sam3, Titi Freak and Vhils, the book refreshingly focuses much of its attention on artists from often overlooked countries including Chile, Colombia, Ukraine, and especially Mexico.

The event that Friday included the opening for an exhibition of artwork (running until October 15th) by all 30 artists featured in Manco’s publication. The author and a coterie of artists were present on the night, chatting with guests and signing copies of the book.

Check out more images of the launch and exhibition after the jump.

Author Tristan Manco (left) with friend

Author Tristan Manco (left) with friend

Saner adding personal flourishes to a book

Saner adding personal flourishes to a book

Works by Roa (Belgium)

Works by Roa (Belgium)

'Guerita' by Saner (Mexico)

UK book cover designed by American artist Ripo

UK book cover designed by American artist Ripo

Text and photographs by Patrick Nguyen.