Graffiti isn’t the oldest art form around but it still has history and tradition. Akt One is what most of us think of when we think graffiti artist. He paints the stuff you see on tubes, wall and streets. We caught up with him and quizzed him about what makes a legit writer in the graffiti streets.

Steal-Life.com - How long have you been a writer and how many other names have you had?
Akt One– I started doing graff in 92, bombing insides and tracksides. I’ve written various other tags but not seriously.

SL - Who or what inspired you to start writing?
AO – I don’t really know exactly when I first noticed graff. As a kid I tried to draw outlines and stuff at school, then I met Slamone, he was the first writer I knew and was a big influence at that time.

SL - How has being a writer influenced your life?
AO – I’ve done certain things in regard to college and jobs as well as met loads of people.

SL - In your eyes, what makes a legit credible writer?
AO – You should have your own style and be prolific.

SL - Would you do commercial commissions?
AO – Yes! Who doesn’t want to get paid?

SL - What do you think about other writers who do commercial work?
AO – It’s fair enough to do commissions for the money, but if it’s all you do and have ever done, you aren’t really a writer in my book.

SL - What other writers do you rate and why?
AO – I rate any writers who get up by hitting good spots with nice tags, throw ups and pieces.

SL - Is avoiding the law a buzz or an occupational hazard?
AO – Bit of both really.

SL - What do you think of the recent increase in street artists using stencils and stickers?
AO – Some of it’s alright, it just annoys me when some mulleted bastard takes an image then puts it about for a for a while and suddenly thinks they’re graff. However, I also think done well it can be another string to your bow.

SL - What’s next for you, can you see yourself writing forever?
A1 – I’ll always have an interest but whether I’ll be writing forever...who knows?