Hey everyone,
With new hunters joining the community every day, not every hunter has the same background and knowledge, and since we’re noticing an increase of ‘artist unknown’. I thought its was time to write a new ‘tips 'n tricks’ on how to identify artists.
If you’re new to hunting, identifying the artist behind a piece can feel like the hardest part of the job. The artist credit is super important for Street Art Cities, but not every wall makes it easy. Here’s a clear guide to help you track down who created what, and keep our map accurate and useful.
Check the signature
Most artists leave a tag, moniker, or stylized signature somewhere on the wall. Look closely at corners, edges, or hidden spots. Even a few readable letters can be enough to start your search.
Search the artist in Street Art Cities
If you can read part of the name, try searching it in the app. Artists often have multiple works in the same city, matching styles can help confirm you’ve found the right person.
Use style recognition
With time, you’ll start noticing patterns:
- Color choices
- Character types
- Line work
- Themes
- Techniques
If it looks like someone you’ve seen before, check their profile and compare.
Reach out to local organisations
Local cultural groups, festival teams, or city art organisations often know exactly who painted what. A quick message can save you a lot of detective work.
Ask fellow hunters
Hunters are one of the best resources you’ll ever have. Post your photo in the forum, chances are someone will recognise the style or tag instantly.
Use reverse image search
Upload your photo to a reverse image search tool. Sometimes the same artwork appears on Instagram, Flickr, or an artist’s portfolio.
Use Instagram tag searches
Another great research trick: search by city‑based hashtags on Instagram. Try tags like streetartantwerp, antwerpstreetart, or similar variations for your city. Artists, locals, and photographers often post the same wall, and sometimes tag the creator.
Use the correct artist name
Avoid using Instagram handles with an “@” in front. Instead:
- Look for the correct spelling on the artist’s website
- Or select the artist from the list with the red verified icon in the app
This keeps the platform clean and consistent.
Use the “Unknown – City” format
If you still can’t identify the artist, no problem. Use this format when adding the artwork:
“Unknown – City” (Replace City with the city you’re hunting in.)
This helps us quickly filter and solve unknowns per city.
Check the n“Unknowns” page
We’ve added a new page to each city on Street Art Cities that lists artworks where the artist hasn’t been identified yet. This includes:
- Artworks with no artist linked
- Artworks attributed to an unknown artist
It’s a super handy way to spot where the community can help fill in the gaps.
You can find the link on each city’s artworks page .
Use Community Notes
If you’re unsure, add the artwork and mark the artist as unknown. Other hunters can jump in with info, and together we keep the map accurate.
We learn together
Even experienced hunters run into unsigned or mysterious pieces. The detective work is part of the fun, and the community is always here to help.
If you’ve got extra tips or tricks, share them below. The more we exchange knowledge, the stronger our global street art map becomes.