The Thousands

The Brunswick Street Mall is a busy place, so seek some solitude just a little further up the Street. (m)art is a quiet, contemporary art-space and retail space, visible only by the colour splashed off the various handbags and artworks in its windows. Supporting talented artists, crafters and jewellery-makers from around the country, (m)art stocks an exquisite range of handmade treasures. This includes ceramics, homewares, journals, bags, lamps, glossy art books and a plethora of jewellery.

Things to look out for are the amazing handbags by Kristen Tennyson, the ethereal critters of Emilly Bullock, and the too-cute jewellery range by Melbournian-designer Betty Jo. The store also has an attached gallery, with exhibits changing regularly. Best part is – it’s all free! (Well not the shopping part, unfortunately). So next time you’re suffocating on traffic fumes and the catcalls of passing drivers, (m)art is a welcome refuge.