Boroka Lookout, Lake Wartook, Zumsteins Picnic Area and the Grampians Peaks Trail are nearby for outdoor and cultural activities.

Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit.

Rupanyup Silo Art, Grampians

In the heart of the Grampians National Park, the Rupanyup Silo Art is part of the Silo Art Trail. This outdoor gallery allows you to see the panoramic views and mountains of Victoria and watch as old silos are transformed into works of art. Rupanyup is the entry point to the spirit of strength and resilience that is in the art and the community.

The Story Behind the Art

The Rupanyup silo mural was painted by Russian artist Julia Volchkova who is famous for her detailed portraits of human emotion and spirit. The mural shows two local kids in sportswear, the youth and the passion for team sports that are part of small-town life. Volchkova’s monochromatic palette reflects the simplicity and depth of rural Australia and lets the focus be on the faces and their connection to the land. By featuring these young athletes, Volchkova taps into the strength of Rupanyup and many small towns as they face challenges together.

This is part of the Silo Art Trail and is a bridge between past and present. Youth is the key to carrying on the legacy of rural Australia. The trail is an evolving celebration of regional life, art in places mainstream culture often ignores, silos into symbols of pride and resilience. The beauty of transformation is evident in these old utilitarian structures, now repurposed as giant canvases telling stories of community and connection.

Silo Art Trail

The Silo Art Trail runs for hundreds of kilometres through towns with strong ties to agriculture, community and art. Each stop on the trail is unique, and Rupanyup is the entry point. The trail is a mix of large-scale murals on grain silos and small towns with a mix of scenic town charm, historical significance and cultural richness. Along the trail, you’ll find works by artists such as Guido van Helten, whose intricate portraits bring to life the stories of rural Australia. Each mural explores local themes, whether it be the Aboriginal history of the land, the influence of Aboriginal culture or the agricultural heart of the region. The silos become an outdoor gallery set against the backdrop of magnificent rock formations, green valleys and jagged mountain ranges like the Grampians.

For those looking for a hands-on adventure, the Silo Art Trail offers not just visual experiences but a connection to the land itself. Whether it’s swimming in natural rock pools, rock hopping along Stony Creek or hiking up Mount William for 360-degree views, this region has a range of outdoor activities that are culturally and physically rewarding. The Grampians Peaks Trail, with its many hiking tracks, has something for novice and experienced hikers to explore the rugged mountain ranges and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and Lake Wartook.

The Artwork

Julia Volchkova’s mural at Rupanyup is all about the kids of the region who are the future. Her monochrome style captures the emotion of her subjects and the beauty of transformation that connects the past, present and future. The sports gear is about the importance of physical activity in building community and a common theme in rural Australia. She wants you to think about your own community and heritage. Volchkova’s Rupanyup kids fit in perfectly with the Grampians.

Silo Art on the Silo Art Trail

Rupanyup Silo Art is a key stop on the Grampians Silo Art Trail, which runs through the Northern Grampians. While you’re here, you can explore the rugged mountain ranges, Aboriginal rock art sites and the popular Zumsteins Picnic Area. The trail is more than just art. It’s a cultural experience that gives you insight into the Djab Wurrung people, the Traditional Owners of the land. The Grampians Peaks Trail, with its stunning views and many hiking tracks, is just a short drive away, so Rupanyup is a must-stop for those who want to combine art, culture and outdoor adventure.

How to Visit

Rupanyup is a short drive, so it’s a great stop on any Grampians day trip or road trip. Located on Tandara Road, just off the Wimmera Highway, there’s one car park so you can pull in, have a look and then move on. If you want to learn more about the art, you can do a guided Silo Art Trail tour which will give you all the background on each piece and the artist. The nearby town of Rupanyup has accommodation options, including farm stays and boutique wineries like Barangaroo Wines so that you can stay overnight.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Rupanyup Silo Art is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and perfect for road trips. These seasons also give you time to explore the surrounding countryside, including Lake Wartook, Boroka Lookout and Reed Lookout, where the beautiful views of the Grampians are at their best. If you love outdoor adventure, autumn is a steady climb in temperature, so it’s perfect for hiking, rock hopping and rock climbing around Mount William and Hollow Mountain. If you’re a photographer, early morning or late afternoon light adds depth and richness to the silo art, making it even more beautiful.

Rupanyup Attractions

While the Silo Art is the main event, there’s more to see and do. Visit local heritage sites, such as the Fyans Creek Footbridge, or grab a wood-fired pizza at a nearby cafe. Nature lovers can walk the Lake Bellfield Dam Walk or Fyans Valley and enjoy picturesque views of the rugged ranges. Wine lovers can visit Barangaroo Wines which has a 30,000 bottle cellar and do wine tastings of the local wines. For the more adventurous you can rock scramble Hollow Mountain or take a stroll along one of the many tracks that crisscross the Northern Grampians.