Until Never

I like names that are circular in fashion — you could say ‘until never’ over and over again and you’ll just end up at the beginning. And that’s much like most art galleries to me because I find the majority of them horribly unfulfilling. Until Never on the other hand, although understandably pretentious, is actually a pretty cool place.
What’s really unexpected about this place is that it’s not all about street art. They offer a great range of genuinely considered works, selected to collaborate really well together across the small space.
The gallery is a great little place to drop by when you’re experiencing a sincere need for inspiration.

It’s a shame that many people venture down Hoiser Lane to indulge in some street art, but aren’t aware that there’s a little equally-​as-​cool gallery tucked away behind some colourfully decorated garbage bins. These guys often feature new, up-​and-​coming artists along with those already quite notable in the art world both in Australia and internationally. Just be aware that they usually close over winter.

In the heart of the mecca of Melbourne’s street art on Hosier Lane is Until Never Gallery. You enter from another little lane off Hosier Lane — Rutledge Lane. Climbing the three flights of stairs up to Until Never gallery I always wonder what I will find at the top in the single white walled gallery room. Sometimes the outside wall downstairs is a clue as to what artist is exhibiting as often the exhibiting artist paints it. Like the rest of the lane way around, it is covered in graffiti.
The gallery’s monthly exhibitions are often street art related as gallery director, Andy MacDonald is a notable figure in Melbourne’s thriving street art scene. However it is not the usual aerosol art creations. This is the work of serious young Australian or International artists whose work frequently includes a street art practice. A friend that I took to the gallery once described the art as looking like the work of «angry, young drunk artists.»
The odd thing is that Andy MacDonald’s mother is generally in charge of the gallery. There is this friendly middle-​aged woman in a gallery with all this angry young art. She recognizes me and says hello me as I arrive at the door of the gallery.