About the artwork

The Metro Tunnel’s City Square construction hoardings displayed a photo essay celebrating the historic Nicholas Building and some of its talented tenants. The building is home to a unique and diverse range of art galleries, fashion designers, artist and design studios, jewellery makers, musicians, storytellers, architects and digital innovators.

Built in 1926 and designed by Harry Norris, the Nicholas Building is one of the oldest precincts in Melbourne yet still gleams with its remarkable, grand ‘Chicago Style’ architecture. A few original features remain, such as its mail chute which carried letters down from upper floors, as well as the beautifully preserved art deco arcade.

About the artist

The exceptional portraits were taken by Kate Ballis, a Melbourne-based fine art photographer. Her work often explores the theme of seeing the unseen, where she creates unique, colour-drenched images using infrared technology.

Photography by Phoebe Powell