Get (Street) Arty in Warrnambool, VIC, Australia
Warrnambool has a thriving street art scene with world-class murals and installations, a wander around town reveals an eclectic mix from epic, large-scale murals on public buildings, to fun sculptured elements and smaller, hard-to-find artworks in laneways.
The past few years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of major artworks added to the Warrnambool CBD and its surrounds. Warrnambool is very proud of its street art and a big supporter of local artists.
Warrnambool's popular recent mural would have to be Gutsy the wombat - who came about from a happy accident. Local artist Jimmi Buscombe said the artwork, which took about three hours to complete, was intended to be a test run with chalk that would wash off in the rain.
However local resident and neighbour (plus former graffiti removalist for Warrnambool City Council) Phil Hoy, decided it was too good to be washed away. So he sprayed a few coats of automotive clear coat to make it permanent.
‘It needed saving, it can’t go’, Phil said.
While Jimmi did not have permission to create the artwork, after explaining the situation to the Council, they were more than happy to let the piece remain.
Warrnambool's Phil Hoy decided the wombat mural needed to stay, and so took it upon himself to make that happen.
Gutsy the Wombat now even turned into a sticker.
Artist Jimmi Buscombe and former graffiti removalist Phil Hoy.
Warrnambool is a proud supporter of the arts and the quality and diversity of the city’s public artworks is a credit to the artists that created them. Warrnambool has some great laneways that are perfect for exploring, letting people discover areas of the city that they might not otherwise explore.
Another favourite of mine is Ngatanwarr (welcome) Mural. On the corner of Merri and Kepler streets, painted by world-renowned artist ‘Adnate’. The mural incorporates information detailing significant cultural sites and narratives of the Gunditjmara and Great South Coast region.
And it is a beautiful stunning bold image that grabs my attention every time I drive or walk by.
The Ngatanwarr Mural on the corner of Merri and Kepler Street, in 2015.
Another of my favorites is the impressive 3-metre seal installation by Dave Jones on the main street, which has become a bit of a spot for photos or to meet your friends.
The laneway off Ozone walk has lots of laneways coming off it and is a good place to start.
David Higgins’ stunning 30m creation was the culmination of the Hidden Histories Laneway Festival.
There is a fantastic website ‘Warrnambool Street Art’ that has collated all local street art with a handy map - but I also find going for a leisurely stroll is a great way to explore and discover the art yourself.
Take A Stroll From Warrnambool Retreat
The great thing about staying at Warrnambool Retreat is that most of the amazing street art is just an easy walk from our doorstep.
Merri and Henna are both on the corner of two historical streets that create their namesakes, Henna and Merri Streets.
Both properties surround guests with curated styling that highlights the simple pleasures in life. We believe in finding magic in everyday moments, searching for miracles in clean lines and linens, and realizing deeper meaning in a freestanding bathtub.
What are you waiting for? Book your next escape to the hidden gem of Victoria today!
Lounge/Kitchen in Merri at Warrnambool Retreat.