Art & History

The Grampians has a very long and interesting history that can be explored at museums and galleries across the region. The above mural image is situated in Horsham, and it reflects the strong art and culture of the western Grampians.

Enjoy the eclectic mix of mediums and subjects at Ros McArthur’s studio tucked away at Mirranatwa at the southern end of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. While you are in the South make sure you pay a visit to Gerard Murphy Furniture in Dunkeld. Gerard is a second-generation furniture maker and has more than 30 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of fine furniture. His designs are absolutely unique, always interesting and sometimes startling: timber becomes art.

The Grampians is also home to glass artist, James McMurtrie. James' artworks are inspired by the mountains that surround his studio. With 25 years of experience using traditional techniques and tools, James skillfully creates high quality functional and sculptural glass. If you want to enjoy the rare opportunity of seeing glassblowing in action, make sure visit James in his studio - you will be blown away.

In Halls Gap, acclaimed environmental artist Steve Morvell showcases work dedicated to raising human awareness of the beauty and fragility of wildlife and the habitats in which we co-exist.

The Grampians is home to a rich tapestry of culture from Aboriginal artifacts and exhibits at Brambuk Cultural Centre in Halls Gap to Chinese textiles, embroideries and relics that tell the story of miners coming to the goldfields at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre in Ararat.

In the east, visit Ararat's lunatic asylums for history tours, ghost tours and paranormal investigations of Ararat's two most popular tourist attractions: J Ward Lunatic Asylum and Aradale. Walk through the cavernous wards and halls of the institution that treated and housed the mentally ill of Victoria for over 140 years.