Nosing around – part 1

James Rouse on the cover of Time Magazine

‘Cities must be fun.’

– James Rouse (1914-1996)

Marvellous Melbourne, Australia, c. 1995

Melbourne, Australia.

Judged the world’s most livable city in 2011.

Contentiously referred to as the cultural capital of the country.

The place I have called home since 1995.

Mercator Studios at the Abbotsford Convent

I’ve previously featured my studio at the Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne.

It is very close to the inner city suburbs of Collingwood and Fitzroy, which I frequent for various reasons.

I thought it might be fun to take you on a tour of a few of my haunts.

Firstly, here is Collingwood through my (somewhat blurry, black and white) eyes!

Australian Galleries Smith Street entry

Australian Galleries in Collingwood represent my work and I exhibit at the 50 Smith Street gallery space.

Nick and Kate at Australian Galleries Smith Street

The Smith Street gallery is managed by the most excellent Nicholas Thompson and Kattie Bugeja.

As well as the main gallery space that presents an exciting range of exhibitions, the Smith Street location also houses an intimate print room.

Australian Galleries Smith Street print room

In the print room you can view work by a plethora of awesome artists including Deborah Williams, Graeme Drendel, Alexi Keywan… and me!

Street view of Fluff Hair

Located a few doors along from Australian Galleries at 46 Smith Street, Collingwood is the fantastic Fluff Hair.

The phenomenal Mario of Fluff Hair

This funky salon is where I have my coiffure styled by scissor genius, Mario Italiano.

Relaxing follicle conditioning and hot beverages are ably provided by the enigmatic Brendon.

Brendon manning the desk at Fluff Hair

Amble on down the road a little further and you will come across the astounding St Luke Artist Colourmen, purveyors of quality art supplies, at 32 Smith Street, Collingwood.

St Luke Artist Colourmen shop front

What a sweet shop is to a kid, St Luke Artist Colourmen is to artists!

St Lukette Kez ready to assist you at the St Luke counter

Kez Hughes and Paul Williams of St Luke are fabulous fonts of information regarding anything and everything art related.

St Luke staffer Paul stocking the shelves with goodies

Round the way at 9 Campbell Street, Collingwood you will find the inimitable Neo Frames.

Entrance to Neo Frames

These guys are who I trust to frame all my art – drawings, prints and paintings.

The customer service and workmanship at Neo are beyond compare.

The wonderful Neo Frames workshop

Give Bob and the crew a visit if you have any framing needs.

If you’re lucky dashing shop dog Neko may be around to give you a friendly greeting!

The lovely Bob and Neko at Neo Frames

In a fortnight i’ll scoot you all over Fitzroy in Nosing around – part 2.

Until next time!