culture
Bendigo's Walls Come Alive: The Rise of Street Art in the City's Laneways
A self-guided walking tour reveals a vibrant mural scene in Chancery Lane, Bath Lane, and Pennyweight Walk, with new works from renowned artists like PHIBS.
How we reported this
Bendigo has steadily transformed its laneways and blank walls into an open-air gallery, cementing its reputation as regional Victoria's premier arts destination. A self-guided street art walking tour now leads visitors through Chancery Lane, Bath Lane, and Pennyweight Walk, where ever-changing murals tell stories of local wildlife, culture, and sustainability.
A Canvas in Mitchell Lane: PHIBS' Wildlife Mural
In 2024, internationally acclaimed Australian artist PHIBS unveiled a mural that spans an entire wall in Mitchell Lane. The work depicts local native species-the grey kangaroo and the flying fox-bringing a slice of the bush right into the city's heart. PHIBS, known for his bold, expressive style, has added a significant piece to Bendigo's growing collection.
Chancery Lane and Pennyweight Walk: Curated Creativity
Chancery Lane, at its Hargreaves Street end, features 'El Callejón Azul', a vibrant mural by Louise Davis, Tomi McManus, and Wes Franklin. The lane's wall art is constantly refreshed, making each visit a new discovery. Pennyweight Walk, stretching between Hargreaves Street and Bath Lane, operates as a curated open-air gallery. Pop art murals commissioned by the City of Greater Bendigo from artist Chris Duffy promote sustainable living, turning a functional walkway into a didactic and colourful public space.
A Strategic Commitment to Public Art
The City of Greater Bendigo's Public Art Plan 2023-2028 outlines the city's commitment to converting bland walls into public canvases, noting that the City Centre hosts the highest number of murals, most in good condition. This strategic approach has been central to Bendigo's evolution as a cultural destination, attracting visitors and supporting local artists. The walking tour is a direct outcome of this sustained investment.
For those keen to explore, the self-guided walk is easy to follow, with murals concentrated in the city's laneways. The tour is free, publicly accessible, and a perfect introduction to Bendigo's dynamic street art scene-a living gallery that continues to evolve with each new commission.