Graffiti and Street Art is becoming more visible in today's world, and is fast becoming the 'cool' way to decorate a bedroom or theme a party.

Benjamin, Adam, Julian Paul and Rich of Graffiti Zone have turned their creative skills into a thriving business, bringing their experience to projects and workshops. parties and even Bar-mitzvahs!

Paul says: "It is a really engaging thing when you see someone's eyes light up at one of our workshops. Quite often it is the quiet ones that will shine, the kids who sit at the back of the class doodling."

Paul explained that the business has solid credentials and all the guys have been CRB checked. At workshops they teach the safe use of spray paints, e.g. using masks and gloves and making sure rooms are well ventilated. They also teach the youngsters the importance of keeping graffiti legal and how they can use urban-themed art in a positive way such as painting baseball caps and tshirts to sell for charity.

"We get good feedback after we visit a school," said Paul. "The teachers will use the techniques for all sorts of things, like harvest festivals and other special events. They find the workshops are a great way for kids to channel negativity into something creative."

Ben adds: "If you try to get the average kid to an after school art class you may find it difficult, but advertise a graffiti lesson and you'll have queues out the door! We hook them with the cool artwork and use the time to motivate and inspire. We turned our passion into our full-time job and we want others to know that they can too. If you believe in yourself you can use your talent to make a difference.

See the Graffiti Zone advertisement on the facing page for more information.