10 Best Melbourne Street Art Pieces Revealing the City
Melbourne is a city of contrasts, blending the timeless allure of Victorian architecture with a cosmopolitan flair fueled by its vibrant ethnic communities. This fusion gives rise to an extraordinary culinary scene and diversity. Home to the MCG, the Australian Open, and the Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne pulses with the energy of sports enthusiasts and coffee connoisseurs living their best lives in the city's bustling hotspots.
Melbourne's streets and alleys have evolved into open-air galleries for lovers of urban beauty, cementing its status as the epicentre of Australian street art. The visionary artist Keith Haring played a pivotal role in igniting the global street art movement with his playful and thought-provoking subway creations in New York City. His influence reached Melbourne in 1984, leaving behind a legacy of mesmerising works on paper, body paintings, and vivid murals, including one still in Collingwood.
Within the arm's reach of the CBD, several areas have become attractions for local and international art enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in Melbourne's dynamic urban art scene. Here are the top 10 places to find the best Melbourne city street art.
Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Australia
For an explosion of colour in every inch, head to Hosier Lane in Melbourne's bustling CBD. Every surface, from walls to bins and windows, is adorned with vibrant paint and unique installations.
Amidst the crowd, you're likely to witness artists leaving their mark on the vibrant canvas that is Hosier Lane Street Art Melbourne. Remember, while graffiti without proper permits is illegal, the street art scene here is a testament to the thriving underground art culture.
Address: Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 (map)
Keith Haring Mural
During his 1984 visit to Melbourne, the renowned New York artist Keith Haring crafted the iconic Collingwood mural, now known as the Keith Haring Mural Melbourne. This masterpiece is a cherished public art piece, one of only 31 surviving Haring murals worldwide. It remains an extraordinary testament to his artistic legacy, notably, one of just three that remains unaltered and unpainted over time.
Address: 35 Johnston St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia (map)
Blender Lane
Blender Lane, located near Blender Studios Melbourne, is a pivotal hub for local street art. Formerly home to Blender Studios, an influential urban and fine art studio, it played a crucial role in shaping Melbourne's street art scene. Despite its brevity, it dazzles with vibrant cartoons and pop culture murals, making it a must-see destination for street art enthusiasts.
Address: Blender La, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
AC/DC Lane
Venture beyond Hosier Lane to discover other Melbourne laneway art pieces, where professionally commissioned works celebrate Australia's rich culture. ACDC Lane, once a favourite music venue for the iconic band, pays homage to their legacy and other cultural landmarks through captivating artwork.
Address: AC/DC La, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
Croft Alley
In the middle of Chinatown lies a colourful graffiti lane in Melbourne called Croft Alley, starting from Little Bourke Street. Walking down this alley after passing by the ever-changing paintings, you'll discover one of Melbourne's much-loved bars, the three-story Croft Institute.
Address: Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
Duckboard Place
Explore Duckboard Place and be immersed in a blend of lively street art, concert posters, and fantastic dining spots. Among the captivating artworks, don't miss Fintan Magee's towering portrait of a man with a tree and Steen Jones' tattoo-style tribute to Melbourne.
This is the only place to view Melbourne's only remaining piece by infamous street artist Banksy. Keep an eye out for the two parachuting rats in the door frame. The Banksy Melbourne artwork has become a cultural landmark for the city, drawing art enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to witness this iconic piece.
Address: Duckboard Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
Fitzroy Street
Step into Melbourne's bohemian core in Fitzroy! The streets burst with vibrant colors. Around every corner and down every alley, you'll discover walls adorned with eclectic, lively street art. It's like entering a dynamic art gallery. Experience the blend of history, community, and art that makes Fitzroy a standout in the Melbourne graffiti art scene.
Address: Fitzroy St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia (map)
Drewery Lane
Drewery Lane in Melbourne stands out from other laneways. It houses Legacy House, dedicated to supporting families affected by the sacrifices made in defence of the nation. Renowned as 'The Mosaic Man,' Sankar Nadeson guides Legacy members in crafting mosaic tiles, all centred around the theme of legacy.
Address: Drewery Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
Rankins Lane
Rankins Lane is a narrow, unassuming brick lane near Bourke Street Mall and is adorned with intriguing artwork and some additional graffiti. This hidden gem captures the spirit of graffiti in Melbourne CBD, where artistry converges with the city's pulsating energy.
Legend has it that it was named after Henry Johnstone Rankine, a convict who arrived in Sydney in 1828. A year later, he and his wife, Eliza, took off to Melbourne, where he established a shop and residence to the east of what would eventually be called Rankins Lane.
Address: Rankins Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia (map)
Hanover House
In 2021, local artist Atong Atem transformed Southbank's Hanover House with a stunning facelift. Atem was commissioned to bring life to two of the building's facades, resulting in an Outdoor Living project.' The murals, adorned with vibrant floral designs, now illuminate the city with neon flowers. These creations draw inspiration from Atem's colonial and vintage European wallpaper collection.
Address: 158 City Rd, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia (map)
Can't Get Enough of Melbourne? Do NOT Miss Out These Bonus Activities
Explore CBD's Hidden Gems: From Laneways to Masterpieces!
Explore Melbourne's iconic street art laneways and uncover the CBD's hidden gems. Hear the artists' firsthand stories behind the art. End at Blender Studios for an exclusive tour and meet the artists. Savour fresh market produce, beverages, and more. Ready to embark on this artistic adventure?
Take a Unique Tour of Melbourne's Art Scene
Explore iconic landmarks and art galleries through the city's historic laneways. These Victorian-era pathways in the Central Business District are adorned with vibrant street art and hidden culinary treasures. Immerse yourself in the tales behind each building and alleyway, creating a truly unique experience.
Have Fun Exploring Melbourne's Street Art Game!
Embark on an interactive Melbourne discovery tour that brings the city's street art to life through your smartphone. You can invite your friends to join the fun, starting at Hosier Lane. Solve clues and puzzles to unravel the artistic wonders of Melbourne.
Learn Melbourne's History on a Delightful Donut Stroll
Join a small-group adventure that takes you through the iconic laneways of the Central Business District, revealing impressive landmarks, Victorian-era streets, vibrant street art, and charming eateries. Your knowledgeable guide will tell the fascinating stories behind each building and alleyway, providing a truly unique experience.
Discover Melbourne's Enigmatic Side
Explore Melbourne's CBD to see impressive historic buildings, learn fascinating history, marvel at colourful street art, stroll through unique arcades, and dive into Chinatown. Your guide will paint a vivid picture of why Melbourne is known as the "most livable city in the world." Within the first hour, try a famous cup of coffee. And when it's time for an authentic Aussie experience, wrap up the tour with a beer. But not just any pub – it's Melbourne's oldest and most historic one.
Wrapping Up Melbourne's Street Art Extravaganza!
Melbourne truly has it all! With so many artsy and cultural hot spots to discover, the best way to explore the city is through a slow, immersive way of travel — by walking.
Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual admirer, the 10 destinations we've explored in this guide promise an unforgettable journey through colour, culture, and creativity. So, grab your camera, hit the streets, and let Melbourne's street art tell you its inspiring stories. Happy exploring!
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I navigate to these street art locations in Melbourne?
The best way to explore these spots is on foot. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services or public transportation for longer distances.
Is there a specific time of day to visit Melbourne street art locations?
Street art is accessible throughout the day, but the lighting in some areas may vary. If you want to capture the art with the best lighting conditions, early morning or late afternoon would be ideal.
Any safety tips for exploring the street art areas in Melbourne?
While Melbourne is generally safe, being aware of your surroundings is advisable. Stay mindful of traffic, and respect the art.
Can I take photos of the street art?
Absolutely, be mindful of others and follow any guidelines.
Are there any specific artists or styles to look for while seeing street art in Melbourne?
Keep an eye out for names like Rone, Adnate, and Phibs, and explore various laneways for unique styles and emerging talent.