The 44-year-old Carlton man was walking with his two children, aged 4 and 7, along a laneway off Nicholson Street in Carlton North about 2.30pm on March 21, when he noticed two men spray painting graffiti on a brick wall.

The father has told police the two men attacked him after he made a comment about their behaviour.

The graffiti vandals punched the victim and ripped his shirt.

The duo ran from the scene when a shop owner intervened.

The father was left with bruising and abrasions after the attack, but is more concerned that he was assaulted in front of his children, police said.

His children were not hurt.

Detectives have released two photos, which were taken by the victim on his mobile phone, of the two men they wish to speak to.

The graffiti artists were both wearing white T-shirts, dark-coloured shorts, baseball caps and blue gloves. One was also wearing sunglasses.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.