Last Wednesday was the Secret Walls Sydney Finals for 2012. We, the art-heads of Sydney, made our way to The Oxford Art Factory to watch the incredibly talented Dale Bigeni and Ben Brown go head to head in a black-ink-only art battle.

Secret Walls is a series live-art events that started in London, UK and has now spread to cities around the world. Assaulting each other with witty art and incredible skill, two artists go head-to-head on massive white canvases in an attempt to win over the audience. While the crowd watches, music pumping (Check out L-FRESH AKA The Lion above) and beers in hand, the artists have 90 minutes to fill their blank canvases and are only to use black ink (paint, markers, pencils etc).

Ben started off strong, as he has done throughout the competition; wowing the crowd with his bold lines and attention to detail. Early in the piece, everyone knew that they were in for some serious skull action.

Meanwhile on the canvas to the right of Ben Brown, Dale was scheming away. Widely known as a skull man himself, it seemed that Mr Bigeni had planned to deliver a “tasty treat” for Ben.

As the evening progressed, so did the artwork and bets were being placed as to who might come away with a win. It was amazing to see what such talented people can put together in such a short period of time (and under such pressure!).

The atmosphere on the night was chilled with a sprinkling of electricity in the air. Secret Walls is a competition, and yet there was a great friendly vibe amongst those who turned up; even Ben and Dale had a laugh and supported each other which was great to see. After the crowd and judges placed their votes, Dale Bigeni emerged victorious against Ben Brown.

It must be said that all of the artists in the Secret Walls series are both unique and brilliant. If you’re feeling generous (or a little self-indulgent, whatever!) head over to the Secret Walls Australia store to grab a limited edition print.