Take a break from the summer sun and immerse yourself in the cool embrace of artistic wonders with our curated guide to indoor art exhibitions in the Grampians region. As temperatures rise outside, discover a refreshing oasis of creativity and cultural enrichment. From emotive Baroque masterpieces to contemporary Australian art inspired by the dramatic Grampians landscapes, each location offers a unique experience that invites you into the world of artistry (and air conditioning). Join us on a journey through these hidden gems, promising creative inspiration and respite amid the Grampians summer.
Embark on a journey into the transcendent beauty of the Baroque era at Hamilton Gallery's latest exhibition, 'Emerging From Darkness: Faith, Emotion, and the Body in the Baroque.' This powerful and unapologetic display of emotive work invites visitors of all ages to explore the dramatic stories of iconic Baroque masters, such as Artemisia Gentileschi, Lavinia Fontana, and Sofonisba Anguissola. This landmark exhibition, running from December 9, 2023, to April 14, 2024, showcases rare, historically significant works that reinterpret experiences of violence and turmoil while empowering voices.
Extend your stay in the region with a visit to Lakes Edge Adventure Park, the perfect lakeside experience to keep kids of all ages and abilities entertained. Stop by the Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum for a unique look into the legacy behind Ansett Transport, and book your stay at the AAt 28 Goldsmith Motel for a friendly country welcome like no other.
Step into the enchanting world of Petschel House, a haven for art enthusiasts nestled in Hamilton. This historic bluestone home and gallery offer a picturesque setting spread across 14 acres of lush gardens, lakes, orchards, and friendly farm animals. Immerse yourself in the world of creativity with private and small group classes and workshops offered by resident artists Jenni Mitchell and Mervyn Hannan, whose sessions are designed to inspire participants to 'see with the artist's eye.'
While in Southern Grampians, stop by Roxburgh House for their famous Italian Pizzas and enchanting two-story bluestone building and laneway atmosphere. Stay at Southern Grampians Cottages for a charming and romantic getaway.
This summer, Horsham Regional Art Gallery is home to the fascinating exhibition ‘Worlds of Infinite Possibility’, an incredible survey of contemporary Australian figural sculpture. Featuring some of the most exciting and creative practitioners of the art across ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal and cardboard working today, artists are invited to display their most whimsical, magical and dystopian creations.
The Horsham Town Hall and Horsham Regional Art Gallery complex is also home to Horsham and Grampians Visitor Information Centre, where the friendly staff offer insight on the perfect locations for you to explore on your visit. When planning your trip to Horsham, don’t forget to spend some time exploring the superb greens at Horsham Golf Club, where you can also enjoy a lunch at the Albatross Cafe or a drink at the bar. Horsham Holiday Park is the perfect place to base yourself as you explore the region, offering a solar-heated pool, and pet-friendly options perfect for your summer escape. Tune in to local station MIXX FM (94.5, 98.5 and 101.3FM) while you take a 15 minute drive to Norton Estate Wines and enjoy a tasting of some of the very best Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvingon Blanc the region has to offer.
Discover the Ros McArthur Art Studio located in the large garden of Woollahra Sheep Farm, between Dunkeld and Halls Gap. Visitors are invited to wander and enjoy the garden while browsing oil paintings by Ros, inspired by the beauty of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
While you’re visiting, head down to Dunkeld to explore other hidden treasures. Receive a warm welcome and enjoy delicious locally sourced and produced goods at Izzy’s Cafe, admire the memorabilia at the Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection, or take a short venture from the main street and explore Gerard Murphy Furniture, a fascinating timber workshop gallery with an extensive range of beautiful giftware and tableware crafted from sustainably-harvested Australian timbers. Make your getaway special with a stay at The Royal Mail Hotel, a renowned Australian destination complete with award-winning restaurant Wickens.
St Arnaud Raillery Hub brings together a thriving community of local artists and talented established and emerging creatives. Railway Hub Incorporated encourages you to immerse yourself in St Arnaud's home of educational, social and creative events, where you can shop from over 30 talented locals for quality, regionally produced and handmade products, art and crafts.
Every two months, the St Arnaud Railway hub will feature a new solo or group exhibition in the public gallery. Visit their website to find out more about the current exhibition. St Arnaud is also a wonderful place to commence an adventure through the Silo Art Trail, featuring several magnificent artworks across the township.
Established in 1968, the Textile Art Museum of Australia (TAMA) in Ararat has long supported the work of textile artists across the nation. The public Gallery is a fascinating place to explore some of the country’s most significant textile and fibre based artwork. This summer, TAMA is set to showcase a fascinating exhibition by Cara Johnson that delves into the issue of damage to land and the subsequent repair, made with materials that have been collected based on their relationship to agriculture and landscape.
Afterwards, make a spooky visit to the J-Ward, Ararat’s Old Goal and Lunatic Asylum. Spend a night or two at Acacia Caravan Park and Holiday Units, where you and your family can make the most of the extensive amenities, including pool, kids play facilities, camp kitchen, free barbeques and WIFI. Unwind at Mountainside Wines, a family owned and operated winery and vineyard serving delicious, hand-tendered and hand-picked pours, or take in the sights with a glass in hand at fellow winery Mount Langi Ghiran.
Beat the heat and elevate your summer experience in the Grampians region by immersing yourself in these captivating indoor art exhibitions. Take a break from the summer sun to explore creativity and culture, and enjoy a cool respite as you feast your senses on some of the best regional exhibitions Australia has to offer.
