For the love of art: Melbourne Laneways

Jessica Tryde- Local Fitness Nut

Even though I’m half Aussie, the city of Melbourne (where I was born) never ceases to amaze me. It’s not just about great coffee options or fresh air. I’m talking about those narrow, hidden alleys coated in bright, neon graffiti – each one telling a story of their own. Melbourne is not just home to the hipsters, but to a great community of story tellers who see this city as a blank canvas, a city waiting to unravel its story through the hands of fine, talented artists.

Believe it or not – even though I’ve visited Melbourne a million times, this year was the first time wandering the laneways of Melbourne city while on a biz trip. And it took my breath entirely away. The sheer details involved in each and every graffiti artwork was incredible! Luckily for me, I had the pleasure of popping by Laneways By Ovolo, situated, well, in the heart of Melbourne’s artsy lanes (hence the name) and even had the opportunity to chat with Melbourne’s creative duo – Marc and Marc – founders of Neon Pear.

Me: So where do you guys get your inspiration for such mesmerizing artwork?

M&M: This inspiration is already there. We live and breathe the inspiration every day just by living in the city of Melbourne. This city is known for its beautiful laneways with artwork and a plethora of restaurants and we’re tactically situated in one of them.

Me: How do you see your project blending in to the surrounding space, and how are people reacting to it?

M&M: The locals already appreciate the laneways of Melbourne, and most of our inspiration is derived from there – all we are trying to do is the bring these artworks indoors into buildings as decoration. We really are fortunate to be located in the everything – with our overseas guests, they’ll see this experience as a continuation of the laneways.

Me: How long does it take to produce an artwork?

M&M: The brainstorming and design work took about 3 weeks and the actual execution took another 3 days, so overall, around a month.

Me: Here’s a tough one – king of art: Sydney or Melbourne?

M&M: You call that tough? Ha – Melbourne with no doubt! Melbourne is recognised as the most fashionable city in Australia. And if you put fashion on the side, we still have sporting and art events being hosted in Melbourne before Sydney.

Me: Last question – what’s your top five laneways to visit?

M&M: Definitely these:

Hosier & Rutledge Lane between Flinders St & Flinders Lane, near Russell St

Union Lane between Bourke St Mall & Lt Collins, near Elizabeth St

Caledonian Lane between Little Bourke & Lonsdale near Elizabeth

ACDC Lane & Duckboard Place off Flinders Lane, near Russell St

Centre Place between Flinders Lane & Collins St, near Elizabeth

Jessica Tryde, born in Australia, bred in Taiwan, is a creative English copywriter living in Hong Kong. Her job includes whipping out creative ideas and digital executions. During her spare time, you’ll find her weight lifting in the gym, training for a gladiatorial bloodbath in a Muay Thai class or attempting to perform a yoga pose. If not working out, you’ll find her mingling with the locals at the wet market or reading at a local Hong Kong café.