The most popular places any art-lover should visit, and a few hidden spots that aren’t as popular but just as incredible…
Keep up to date with Melbourne’s latest art events, exhibitions and performances here.
If you’re lucky enough to have some extra time for a day trip out of Melbourne, a few of my other favourite galleries that you should definitely add to your itinerary include the Heide Museum of Modern Art (Bulleen) or the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery.
Tolarno Galleries on Exhibition Street and Outrè Gallery on Smith Street in Fitzroy should also be top of your list! Overall, we are SPOILT for choice.
Where I have been inspired around Melbourne?
I get a lot of inspiration from the books and objects I collect. I enjoy going to thrift and second hand stores, in particular the Lost & Found Markets in Brunswick. However, sometimes it’s better to search for these hidden gems out in the countryside rather than in Melbourne, where things get overpriced.
If you’re ever outside of the city, head to The Vintage Shed in Tyabb – that’s where I’ve found some treasures that inspire me. I recently collaborated with RVCA, and found inspiration for the prints, patterns and colours from the vintage books, record covers and hand painted prints and patterns I’ve found around these places. You can check out the collaboration here.I also enjoy going to gigs and playing music at home.
If you were in Melbourne for just one day you need to add The Tote Hotel in Collingwood to your itinerary to catch a live show. A dear friend of mine will be opening a new record shop in Northcote called ‘Rowdy’s’ which you should definitely keep an eye out for – that’s all I can say for now, he’s even got a stage in the back for some small Gigs, it’s very exciting.
I also find inspiration when I’m on long walks along the coastline – places that get you thinking more creatively and imagination is ignited.
The best retail and art stores to visit
I’ve been shopping at Melbourne Art Supplies since 2007 when I studied Fine Arts at RMIT. They used to have a store in the city but are now in Brunswick, and lucky for me in Hampton East! They are so receptive to questions and are a down-to-earth, family owned business.
Happy Valley on Smith Street in Collingwood are great for books, gifts and records, and to find some local one-off hand made pieces. In creating my recent capsule collaboration with RVCA a lot of my inspiration was drawn from vintage posters and illustrations, old books and vinyl records that I’ve collected over the years from Happy Valley and in my travels. You can check out that here.
I also love going to in.cube8r on Smith St in Fitzroy, and I would say do yourself a favour and make a trip to Collingwood Yards (off Johnston St, Collingwood). Check out the new Arts Project Australia Gallery and there’s a whole area of local artist run studios, bookshops and record stores too.
Must-visit cafes, restaurants and bars with artistic interiors + art offerings
Another favourite is Hazel on Flinders Lane. I love the Art Deco style interiors and their food is amazing – Definitely a must try on special occasions.
Lastly – Cookie in the Curtain House on Swanston Street. An oldie but a goodie too. I love the story book / Alice in Wonderland interior. You also have Metropolis books underneath! I love the stick-up posters for old concerts and album launches around the venue, in my apparel I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from 60s and 70s poster style graphics, and the overlapping bold colours and patterns a wall crowded with concert posters presents.
Views of the city
My favourite view of the city is on the High Street Northcote Bridge heading down to Westgarth. The houses are super cute and you get a pretty view of the city any time of the year.
If you’re into an art-lover’s day trip around Melbourne, you need to make sure to check out what’s happening in the outer suburbs, just by jumping on a train or tram. They all have their own local characteristics that also contribute to the art, culture and community of Melbourne. Even better, drive along the coastline and get some salty air in your hair!
Check out some of Melissa Grisancich’s recent work here.