Newcastle: Australia's new arts capital?

Sydney’s inner west enclave Newtown has long been regarded as the Mecca for artists in New South Wales. Although gentrification and high real estate prices have fought against the village’s creative culture, it is hard to find a funkier little corner of the city.

Further afield, there’s also a "new Newtown" emerging and serendipitously -- the similarly-named city of Newcastle.

Artistically, Newcastle's reputation was previously confined to the birthplace of Silverchair and Tap Dogs.

The gritty manufacturing capital -- about 160 kilometers or two hours drive north of Sydney -- was once only contemplated by tourists on the way to the Hunter Valley wine region. Dubbed “Steel City” -- owing to its mining history is no longer just a passing road sign.

"Newie," as the locals call it, has had a makeover. And it's becoming one of Australia's leading arts cities with a rising number of artists becoming part of its 150,000+ population.

Culture comes to town

This is largely due to a project called "Renew Newcastle" that links artists, cultural projects and community groups with unused buildings around the city. The project proposes to keep the structures lively and utilized until a viable full-time use is secured.

This has helped create a culture of street art, festivals and markets.

Now, Newcastle has become an art force to be reckoned with. The Newcastle Region Art Gallery houses one of the most significant collections in Australia.

• Newcastle Region Art Gallery, Laman Street Newcastle, tel +61 (0)2 4974 5100

Big on ‘street cred’

Some of the works found at the Newcastle Region Art Gallery.

About 15 private galleries give off a distinct bohemian energy. The photography at GalleryRAW (202 King Street Newcastle, + 61 (0)401 614 132) and Cooks Hill Galleries (Cooks Hill Galleries, 67 Bull Street Cooks Hill, +61 (0)2 4926 3899) contribute to the vibe.

At Cooks Hill, the fig tree-shaded Darby Street is a haven of funky retail outlets, including acclaimed Novecastrian designers High Tea with Mrs. Woo. (74 Darby St Cooks Hill, tel +61 (0)2 4926 4883)

At Beaumont Street, Hamilton, the piercings and tattoos crowd congregate with old timers and immigrants, creating a retrospection of Newtown’s King Street.

On the coast at Honeysuckle, the harbor side precinct has developed its own groove.

And of course, ‘Newie’ continues to provide a canvas for perhaps the greatest Novocastrian art form -- surfing.

Indeed, Newcastle has that asset that landlocked Newtown could never have -- beaches with waves. Nature's art.