Last month, I had the pleasure of exhibiting my work as part of ‘Fitzroy Fifty-Five’ a group show at Fitzroy Public Gallery. The exhibition brought together a diverse group of local artists showing works from a diverse range of mediums all within the 55cm x 55cm size requirement.

For this show, I presented a photographic work from my ongoing series, Portraits of the Inner North — a project capturing the textures, quiet stories, and overlooked corners of Fitzroy, Collingwood, and Northcote.

My exhibited piece (below) was taken in Collingwood, where I was drawn to the geometry and juxtaposition of old and new architecture.

Person in a grey beanie and black cape stands against a white gallery wall hung with mixed artworks; in the foreground, a white pedestal holds a blue‑green glass hand sculpture and a small black object.

Thanks to Fitzroy Public Gallery for the opportunity and to everyone who came to view the work. I’m excited to continue expanding this series with more images across the north side — and sharing these moments that might otherwise slip by unnoticed.

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Interested in purchasing a print from this series?
Prints from Portraits of the Inner North are available via Hidden North on Instagram or my online shop.

Hidden Gems of Melbourne’s Inner North

There’s something magnetic about Fitzroy, Collingwood, and Northcote — places where the past lingers in cracked tiles, faded signage, and brick walls layered with time. These overlooked details are what I’m drawn to. I’ve been quietly documenting them over the past year, and now I’m sharing that work in my upcoming exhibition:

📍 Blackcat Fitzroy | Opening Night: April 11 - May 1st

Why I Photograph the Inner North

This series started with quiet walks and a camera. I’d stop for ghost signs, tiled entries, unusual angles — anything with story and texture. Inspired by urban photographers like Fred Herzog, I’m interested in everyday spaces that feel timeless and a little forgotten.

Noticing the Small Stuff

I’m always looking for subtle contrasts: shadow on brick, ivy reclaiming a wall, an old sign half-lost to weather. These fragments of Melbourne speak to how cities evolve — and what we leave behind.

Prints & Exhibition

The works are printed as limited edition photographs, framed simply to let the details speak. Select pieces from the show will also be available as prints online at LesleyBourne.com/shop from April 11.

Come See It

If you’re in Melbourne, come to the show and see these portraits up close. If not, follow the journey on Instagram at @hidden__north — I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes and print drops there.

Hope to see you there!
– Lesley