PICTORIAL representations of artists as artwork have become almost synonymous with legendary Spitalfields duo Gilbert and George. The pair draw inspiration from their East End habitat for their latest collection, the Jack Freak Pictures, integral to which

PICTORIAL representations of artists as artwork have become almost synonymous with legendary Spitalfields duo Gilbert and George.

The pair draw inspiration from their East End habitat for their latest collection, the Jack Freak Pictures, integral to which is the ever-present theme of Gilbert and George themselves as prominent focal points.

Whether dancing, gurning, watching or contorting, they are represented against the iconic image of the Union Jack, itself both an abstract geometric shape and a socially and politically relevant symbol.

The pictures are set in the East End, mainly around Fournier Street in Spitalfields where the pair have lived and worked for more than forty years, and depict the many facets of modern life through imagery of street signs, graffiti, medals and other less obvious religious, political, sexual, economic and social emblems of the day.

Inevitably, important questions are raised by each piece in the collection, which has been described by writer Michael Bracewell as "among the most iconic, philosophically astute and visually violent works that Gilbert and George have ever created", as well as being their largest series of work to date.

The Jack Freak Pictures are exhibiting at Hoxton Square's White Cube gallery until August 22. For opening times and more information, see www.whitecube.com