Canvas to clay: the Margaret River Region’s diverse art scene

Internationally renowned surf and ocean photographer Russell Ord certainly isn’t a new face on the art scene, but we can now enjoy his stunning work year-round at Flow Gallery. Russell and wife Catherine opened Flow two years ago in a purpose-built space at Edwards Wines and invite local like-minded creators to share the light-filled gallery space. Jewellery, sculpture, ceramics, prints and glass now complement Russell’s breathtaking photography.

John Miller Design and John Streater Fine Furniture have been fixtures of Yallingup’s art scene for decades. No visit by jewellery, sculpture and furniture appreciators is complete without a drop by to see these characterful and welcoming gents at work. International and interstate travellers make a beeline for their galleries to add a new piece to their collection, and locals proudly wear or display their craftsmanship.

Origins Market in Busselton is the place to meet jewellers, painters, potters and sculptors in residence. Their regular and ever-changing workshops and live art demonstrations are accessible and a great way to discover new and emerging artists.

REDSEA Gallery Margaret River may be one of the newer galleries in the region, but owners Chris and Charlie Churcher have more than 20 years of experience as gallery owners and curators, running a successful sister gallery in Singapore. They’ve brought to the region a thoughtfully curated collection of international, interstate and local art that sits together perfectly. 

Their renovated gallery, housed in a heritage shopfront, stands proudly on Margaret River’s main street. Look out for some exciting exhibitions in 2025 including Leon Pericles’ My Wonderful Life and a special exhibition by contemporary West Australian landscape painter Peter Usher whose work you might recognise from Leeuwin Estate’s Art Series label.

The much-anticipated Saltwater Busselton gallery will be a showpiece of local, regional and national touring art when it opens early 2026. Art lovers can look forward to a wealth of new shows and exhibitions, complementing the Busselton Cultural Precinct – which features the Bond Store Gallery, the Old Court House Complex and the Settlement Sculpture Walk. 

Yallingup Aboriginal Art is the region’s largest, dedicated contemporary Aboriginal art gallery, providing a window to Dreamtime. Purposefully curated to feature artists from around Australia, each sold artwork comes with a complimentary story by the artist, unique to each piece. The gallery collection is complemented by prints, books and gifts and the enticement of neighbouring Jilyara Wines’ cellar door. 

Mr. Barval Fine Wines showcases a unique collection of art from remote Indigenous communities at its Margaret River Cellar Door. Known as the Dillybag Collective, the current ‘Colour Story’ exhibition is a collection of art by women from remote communities in the Northern Territory telling their stories through traditional weaving and bush colours.

Explore stunning art prints by Josh Whiteland from Koomal Dreaming, available in a variety of sizes. Each print is locally produced in Dunsborough on archival-quality paper, carefully stretched and ready to hang. These captivating works can be found at Tunbridge Gallery Margaret River, Yallingup Aboriginal Art, as well as the Visitor Centres in Busselton and Margaret River. You’ll also find them in various cave and lighthouse shops throughout the region. 

Creativity meets craftsmanship with the region’s rich selection of tactile, striking and delightful ceramics and pottery galleries. Sensei Pots, Wilyabrup Dreaming and Busselton Pottery feature handmade ceramics from decorative pieces to everyday functional wares. For traditional, minimalist designs a visit to Dilkes-Hoffman Studio Ceramics is a must. 

Known for its distinctive glazes and bold designs, Happs Pottery also runs interactive workshops. A working studio home to several potters, they create contemporary, functional pieces. Also offering workshops, Commonage Pottery boasts a range of ceramics blending rustic charm with modern designs. 

The youngest potter in the region, Jacob Lyon, is fast making a name for himself with his own organic designs and handmade glazes, inspired by the South West landscape.

Aravina Estate’s WA Surf Gallery celebrates WA’s rich surfing history, featuring rare and never-before-seen memorabilia, including surfboards of the 1950s to ‘70s. Grab a glass from the cellar door and discover the unique collection, including rare photographs of legendary surf photographers like Ric Chan and Greg Woodward.

Yallingup Galleries is a long-standing pillar for fine art by local and interstate artists. The icing on the cake – recent additions of a sculpture trail, a charming wine–tasting hub for Vallée du Venom, art workshops and ‘paint and sips’ run by local artists.

Leeuwin Estate’s  Art Series wine labels began with over 150 artworks from iconic Australian artists like John Olsen, Arthur Boyd, and Sir Sidney Nolan. Some pieces were commissioned, while others were sourced from exhibitions. Over time, the collection has grown, with many works displayed at the Leeuwin Estate Art Gallery.

Events like Margaret River Region Open Studios and a vibrant mix of galleries and home studios have cemented the South West as a mecca for creatives and art lovers alike. Visual arts, sculptures, ceramics, furniture, wearable pieces and more… there’s something for every eye in this creative corner of the world.