Graffiti has long been a subject of debate - some see it as art, others as vandalism. But for Dundee-based graffiti artist SYKE, it’s a powerful way to express creativity and bring life to the city’s streets.
If you’ve wandered through Dundee, you’ve probably spotted the word SYKE plastered on walls across the city. But who is the artist behind the name?
Symon Mathieson, better known as SYKE, has been transforming Dundee’s streets with bold, creative graffiti for years.
In December last year, SYKE modified his well-known Dundee text mural, adding CULTURE to pay homage to Dundee Culture. It was a brilliant addition and a really kind gesture.
I talked with him to discuss about his influences, favourite works, and what goes into creating his stunning murals.
What influenced you to become a graffiti artist, and how did you start?
I started in graffiti as a teenager hanging around Ardler. My first influence was my friend Bobby Hanney, and then I met Mark Wallace, who got me hooked on the possibilities beyond just tagging. Ruth Thomson, a youth worker at Ardler Community Centre, brought Mark in to host workshops, and eventually, we completed a mural at the Ardler shops. That was the start of everything for me.
What are some of your favourite artworks you’ve produced in the city?
I’ve got a mix of commissioned and personal work that I love. For commissions, I’d say the tigers on Dundonald Street and my nature-themed mural in Douglas. For personal pieces, I really enjoyed painting the Still Game portraits and, more recently, my portrait of musician Ren Gill.
What is the process of creating a new artwork in Dundee? Where do your ideas come from?
Ideas come from different places. Lettering was my first love, and that’s where it all began for me. But in recent years, I’ve focused more on portraits, exploring how to bring characters to life on walls across the city.
There continues to be a stigma towards graffiti, with many linking it to vandalism. Have you ever encountered criticism or negativity from people who don’t see it as an art form? If so, how do you respond to that?
The stigma has definitely changed, especially in Dundee. With the legal spots we have, the public is exposed to graffiti art more, and that helps people appreciate the process and the work involved. When they see it happen in real time, they start to understand that it’s more than just spray paint on a wall - it’s an art form.
Where are some of the best places in Dundee to create graffiti art? Where do you decide to create your pieces?
Mary Ann Lane, the boards at Seabraes, and the underpass at Moneymusk Park are my favourite spots to paint.
Have you got any new pieces in the works?
I’m always working on something! Lately, I’ve been focusing on canvas work at home, and I’ve got pieces heading to a gallery showing later this year, which I’m really excited about.
Would you advocate for more public spaces dedicated to graffiti in Dundee, like a Graffiti Alley or Graffiti Park similar to those in cities like Toronto?
Absolutely. A graffiti park or alley would be a great addition to the city’s art scene. I’m all for more public art in any form.
What advice would you give to others who want to get involved in graffiti artwork?
Practice is key - whether on paper, digitally, or on walls with paint. Grab some spray cans, get a wooden board in the garden, and just start experimenting. The more you do it, the better you’ll get.
SYKE’s work continues to shape Dundee’s urban landscape, turning blank walls into vibrant canvases. With more spaces for public art, the city could become an even bigger hub for street artists looking to leave their mark.
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