A impressive exhibition of street art opens at the Ulster Museum in Belfast today.

The touring exhibition of urban themed pieces has been organised by the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, and showcases over 30 street artists including the world-famous Banksy, Miss Tic, and Jamie Hewlett.

The exhibition highlights the diversity, controversy and talent that can be found in street art.

It runs until March, and explores the way street art has moved from the painted wall to printmaking and other distinctive forms.

Kim Mawhinney, head of art at National Museums Northern Ireland, said new and regular visitors to the Ulster Museum will enjoy its latest offering.

“A lot of people have a preconceived idea about street art, which they may see as vandalism, but the art is extremely significant in the way it can be seen as social commentary, as well as influencing printmaking, mainstream graphics and advertising,” she said.

As well as contributions from artists with an international reputation, such as Shepard Fairey, whose work became synonymous with the 2008 Obama presidential campaign, four local street artists have been selected to take part in the Tags not Labels exhibition.

Kate Bellamy, head of international strategy at the Victoria & Albert Museum, said its first time working with the Ulster Museum was an “exciting opportunity” for both parties.