The best way to explore the shops of Newtown is to get out of the car and walk. Better still, come by public transport and be prepared to spend the day (and night) discovering the many niche businesses that abound.

While King Street may be busy with cars, buses, trucks etc., the back streets of Newtown are a welcome break from the noise and busyness of the main drag. Full of pocket parks, for a sneaky picnic and  tranquil place of quiet contemplation, there is an astounding array of artwork dotted along the streets and lanes, ready for exploration.
 
I particularly love coming across a Will Coles concrete sculpture, often stuck down in a secluded spot as if thrown down with abandon. Another favourite is anything by Ears, and I was glad to see a prominent work by this artist on the wall of the New Theatre on south King Street.

Walk Newtown and discover your own preferences for the art that abounds. 
Marrickville Council has a map for self-guided tours, for more info, go to marrickville.nsw.gov.au/perfectmatch.
Or, follow @myinnerwest on Instagram or www.facebook.com/MyInnerWest and see if you can see what they see ;-)

The majestic crane is thought to be a highly symbolic bird throughout many cultures, and who can resist the beauty of the this splendid creature. 
To keep our creative forces flowing, we have folded a number of origami cranes, all the while mindful of their significance as a symbol for hope, love, honour and peace. 
Frank oversees our current display, resplendent in his red suit and purple heart, and invites you to delve in to your sewing room and unearth the pleasures that can be found there.