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Finding Purpose in Melbourne’s Forgotten Laneways with Tinky

Season 3 Episode 103 Published 3 months, 3 weeks ago
Description

When I first discovered Tinky’s tiny installations hidden throughout Melbourne’s laneways, I was instantly captivated. What looked like a whimsical miniature scene often revealed something much deeper: sharp observation, dark humour, storytelling, and a unique way of seeing the world. In this episode, I sit down with Melbourne-based artist Tinky, whose miniature street art has transformed overlooked corners, gutters, walls, and public spaces into unexpected moments of delight and reflection.

Tinky shares the remarkable story of how a spontaneous trip to a vintage market and a toy Big Bird figurine unexpectedly launched an entirely new chapter of her life. From battling imposter syndrome and questioning whether she could even call herself an artist, to exhibiting in galleries, collaborating on major projects, and even catching the attention of Sophie Ellis-Bextor, her journey is a powerful reminder that purpose often arrives in the most unexpected ways.

What unfolds is a conversation about creativity, humour, storytelling, noticing beauty in forgotten places, and how art can help us slow down and see the world differently. We also explore the ephemeral nature of street art, the role of dark humour in processing life, and the joy of creating something that makes complete strangers smile.

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Take care,
Catherine

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