Tucked into the rolling landscape of Victoria Valley, just outside Dunkeld, award-winning artist Ros McArthur has created a studio experience that feels as thoughtful and grounded as the work itself.

Surrounded by open farmland and the dramatic silhouettes of the Grampians, Ros’s art is deeply shaped by the environment she lives and works in. Her paintings draw on the colours, light and quiet rhythms of the region, capturing both its beauty and its emotional pull.

Ros is widely recognised for her expressive use of colour and form, with works held in private and corporate collections across Australia and internationally. While landscapes remain a strong thread through her practice, her body of work also includes still life and contemporary pieces, all marked by a sense of movement, mood and place.

Visitors to her studio often comment on how naturally the artwork connects to the scenery outside, as though the land has found its way directly onto the canvas.

A visit to the Ros McArthur Art Studio is as much about the experience as it is the art. Set within the gardens of a working sheep farm, the studio welcomes visitors to wander, linger and engage with the work at their own pace.

Ros is known for her warmth and generosity, often taking the time to share stories about her practice, her inspirations and life in the Southern Grampians. It’s a stop that feels personal, authentic and quietly memorable, offering a genuine connection to one of the region’s most respected creative voices.

Five Minutes With Ros McArthur…

How long have you lived in the Southern Grampians and what brought you here?

It was love that brought me here permanently 26 years ago!

What do you love most about the Southern Grampians?

The magic quality of the peace, lifestyle and the always enchanting seasonal changes in the natural environment.

What is your favourite memory or experience of the Southern Grampians?

My earliest memory of the Grampians was when I was five and camping with my family. More recently, on Anzac Day, we watched the amazing sunrise over the mountain ranges from a farm hilltop. It was a very beautiful and emotional experience.

Your studio sits in the quiet landscape of Victoria Valley beneath the Grampians. What is it about this place that continues to inspire your work?

There is always something new to discover and try to capture here. It could be the bark on a red gum, a rose in the garden, farm life, a huge mountain vista or a magic sky. It is an endless source of inspiration.

Looking back, was there a moment when you realised painting would become such an important part of your life?

The moment I discovered oil paint about 30 years ago. This medium has the ability to give me the subtlety of colours and tones that I need to depict my images on canvas.

Living on a working farm must offer endless visual inspiration. Are there everyday moments here that frequently find their way into your art?

Yes, absolutely. There is always something new to discover and try to capture here, from the bark on a red gum to a rose in the garden, farm life, a huge mountain vista or a magic sky.

Your studio is tucked away and feels like a discovery for visitors. What do you hope people experience when they step inside your gallery?

So often the first word people say as they step inside is “wow”. I like that. It just happened when a lovely German-Finnish couple, who live in Singapore, visited today.

Over the years, has your artistic style evolved and what continues to challenge or excite you today?

My work still covers a variety of genres, including landscapes, still life, fantasy, abstract and contemporary paintings. Recently, I’ve been challenging myself with portraiture.

For someone visiting Dunkeld and the Southern Grampians for the first time, what would you encourage them to slow down and notice about this landscape?

I would love people to just quietly absorb the natural beauty of this incredible place. To walk the tracks and listen to the sounds of the bush, smell the perfumes, observe the animals and see both the large expanses and the tiny intricacies of the landscape.

Discover more from Ros here:

Website: www.grampiansart.com.au

Instagram: @rosmcarthurart