Little Audrey

This original stencil painting by Melbourne artist Geoff Cunningham captures the nostalgic character of Australian neighbourhoods and everyday childhood moments of the 1970s and 80's. Geoff blends hand-cut stencils and layered spray techniques to create bold light, shadow and detail. Each piece celebrates the warmth, simplicity and familiarity of retro Australian life. I don't normally paint Melbourne's iconic landmarks, but there was something about the original Skipping Girl Vinegar sign that I couldn't resist. Affectionately known as 'Little Audrey', she first appeared above the Nycander vinegar factory in Abbotsford in 1936, becoming one of Melbourne's earliest animated neon signs. Sadly, the factory met Whelan the Wrecker in 1968, and the original sign was eventually lost to scrap metal. Following a public outcry, a smaller replacement appeared a little further down Victoria Street in 1970. Same girl, different rooftop. This original multi-layer stencil painting captures the old building in all its faded glory - peeling hand-painted signage, power lines and a little girl who just keeps on skipping. Some things are simply too good to forget. Acrylic & aerosol on canvas - 90 x 120cm , framed in floating flooded gum