Think you know South Melbourne? Artist Charlie Nanos might make you look twice.
The market. The trams. The colourful streets. That familiar skyline.
South Melbourne is full of little details that give the neighbourhood its character, and Charlie has captured plenty of them in three original artworks created for Local: South Melbourne.
Bright, colourful and packed with personality, his paintings celebrate the everyday places and familiar sights that make somewhere feel special.
Charlie's path to becoming an artist wasn't exactly straightforward.
Originally a tradesman, he was forced to step away from his career in 2021 after developing a rare heart condition.
Art became an unexpected new chapter.
What began as a way to find comfort and healing soon developed into a full-time creative practice.
Today, Charlie paints from a studio he built himself near the Mornington Peninsula, creating works that bring together storytelling, colour and nostalgia.
His paintings have earned recognition through Bluethumb, including being named a Rising Star in 2022.
For Local: South Melbourne, Charlie has created three original paintings celebrating the places and experiences that make the area unique.
In Full View
A colourful look at South Melbourne and its surrounds, stretching from the bay to the city skyline.
Packed with familiar landmarks and everyday details, it's the kind of painting you can spend ages exploring.
Local Favourites
Every neighbourhood has its favourite spots.
This work brings together some of South Melbourne's most recognisable places, celebrating the architecture, streets and familiar features that give the area its personality.
And naturally, there's a tram. It wouldn't be Melbourne without one.
Market Day
There's nowhere quite like South Melbourne Market.
Trading since 1867, it's a neighbourhood institution, whether you're picking up fresh produce, meeting friends for lunch or enjoying a weekend wander.
Charlie's Market Day captures its lively atmosphere and the little moments that make a trip to the market such a local favourite.
All three works are painted in acrylic and framed in Australian flooded gum.
The resident lounge where Charlie’s illustrations are painted is a generous communal space with seating, screens and a kitchen with butler’s pantry, chefs are jealous of.
Regular resident events, run by the onsite team, are often hosted here and giveresidents a chance to actually meet their neighbours.
Charlie’s pieces reflectthe communal dining experience with a collection of plates climbing thestructural pillar that defines the space.
And yes, one of the plates isdedicated to the iconic South Melbourne dim sim.
One of the best parts of living somewhere new is getting to know the neighbourhood.
Finding your favourite coffee spot. Discovering a hidden gem. Learning which way to walk when you have a little extra time to explore.
Charlie's paintings are a colourful introduction to life in South Melbourne.
And for residents who already know the area, they're a fun little challenge.
How many places can you recognise?
Better yet, how many have you visited?
We love that these artworks invite residents to explore beyond the building and discover more of the neighbourhood they call home.
Because sometimes the best way to feel like a local is simply to get out there and explore.
Discover more of Charlie's work: Bluethumb
