Art, caffeine and booze pulse through the arteries at this alchemic Fitzroy bar. Ponder the efforts of emerging artists as you recline in its airy spaciousness.
Deep in the heart of Fitzroy the Artery - art, bar and cafe - captures the alchemic mix of the suburb. The space has been providing booze, caffeine and artistic inspiration since 2004, representing the new breed of bar that effortlessly multi-tasks. Big and airy, with architectural lighting (locally designed) casting a soft glow over the gallery space, Artery is a cafe by day, bar by night and gallery space all week long. It also hosts acoustic music and functions, from corporate events to weddings.
The wine list varies regularly yet always follows a theme - one week it could be female winemakers, another week the focus could be Italian wines. There is Heineken on tap, as well as a fabulous Guinness machine that sends a negative ion charge through an un-carbonated glass of Guinness (poured from a can) to create the perfect pint - an art form in itself. Prices are kept low in deference to the talent-rich but sometimes cash-poor artists that regularly drop in.
New exhibitions, featuring art and installations by many young and emerging artists, are launched every two weeks. Simple bar food is available, and during summer the courtyard is a lovely place to recline.
Ben Maas
