Donovan Christie finds charm in the overlooked corners of Melbourne and Sydney—spaces where history and humanity coexist amidst the decay and destruction of the urban landscape. There's a tension between past and present: the resilience of multicultural Australia amidst the rapid march of gentrification and cultural change.

 

Driven by a deep nostalgia for a time when local stores served as the heartbeat of community life, he immortalises the disappearing rows of shops, old trades, and corner stores that once defined Australia’s urban culture, capturing the essence of a bygone era. He encourages us to lift our gaze and rediscover the long, narrative history embedded in the decaying architecture of the buildings we walk past every day. 

 

As gentrification continues to reshape the urban fabric, Christie's works allow us to pause and appreciate the often-overlooked character and charm of these everyday landmarks. His work stands as both a celebration of Australia’s cultural street heritage, and a call to foster a renewed connection to our local businesses, urging us to support those who remain before they too fade into memory.

 

Christie blends narrative depth with intricate realism, encouraging us to reflect on, and cherish, what some might consider commonplace.

 

“My aim is to bring attention to the things that often take a backseat,” Christie explains. “Each painting has a personal story attached, and I place a piece of myself into each one. These works are more than just images; they’re narratives that invite viewers to rediscover their own connections to the world around them.”

 

Christie has been a finalist in several prestigious art prizes, including the Mosman Art Prize, Highly Commended at The Hornsby Art Prize and the John Leslie Landscape Prize. 

 

Anthea Mentzalis,
February, 2025