Vibrant street art has transformed 33 of Melbourne's renowned laneways, as the city fills with visitors for summer celebrations.
The new creative and lighting installations are part of the City of Melbourne's Flash Forward program - the largest revitalisation of CBD laneways in Melbourne's history.
Recently complete works include:
- A mural in Little Collins Street by autistic artist Prue Stevenson, depicting neural networks surrounded by her thoughts.
- A set of five bold pastel paintings in Stevenson Lane, inspired by artist Olana Janfa's Ethiopian culture.
- A series of four lightboxes in Meyers Place depicting colonialism in Australia, painted by Gumbaynggirr woman Aretha Brown.
- A three-metre tall crushed paint can by street artist Ling, installed in Wills Street - Ling's second work for Flash Forward, following his transformation of Finlay Alley with a giant mural.
More than 160 creative industry professionals have been supported to deliver Flash Forward, through the Victorian Government's $500 million Working for Victoria Fund.
Attributable to Lord Mayor Sally Capp
"Whether you're having dumplings in Chinatown, a picnic in Flagstaff Gardens or seeing a show in our theatre district, you'll be able to spot plenty of unique new art thanks to our Flash Forward project," the Lord Mayor said.
"We've been so lucky to commission artworks from Melbourne artists while international travel has been off the cards, and their pieces are the perfect backdrop for our creative city.
"Treat yourself to a bit of culture after work or on your next city visit, and immerse yourself in Melbourne's world of public art."
Attributable to Creative Melbourne portfolio lead Councillor Jamal Hakim
"Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, and these additions as part of Flash Forward cement that fact yet again. These new works by local creatives are reshaping our laneways and enticing visitors in to see Australia's best free outdoor gallery," Cr Hakim said.
"You can also pick up merchandise from these talented creatives at our Flash Forward Store on Little Collins Street, with all profits going directly into their pockets - the perfect Christmas gift for the art aficionado in your life."
"The city canvas is getting new life thanks to these outstanding creatives and there's no better time to visit and explore."
Attributable to Minister for Employment Jaala Pulford
"It's wonderful to see our creative professionals contributing to the city's artistic legacy that will be enjoyed by Melbourne's residents, workers and visitors for years to come."
"Victoria's creative heritage runs deep and there's no more iconic way for our culture to be on display than in the city's beloved laneways."
