La Vita Nuova!

A New Chapter: From Albany to Ballarat

The past six months have been unlike any other in our lives.

After many wonderful years in Albany, Western Australia, we made the decision to begin a new chapter, relocating our home and studio to the historic city of Ballarat, Victoria. It was not simply a change of address, but a journey that took us across thousands of kilometres, through some of Australia's most remarkable landscapes, and into a new season of our artistic lives.

We saw so much beauty on our long journey through Nullabor to South Australia. Here is one that moved us on the way: Memorial to the Pioneers.

Driving across the Nullarbor Plain was an unforgettable experience. The vast open spaces, endless horizons and quiet beauty reminded us just how extraordinary this country truly is. As we continued east, we found ourselves discovering South Australia in a way we had never experienced before.

One of the great highlights of the journey was visiting the South Australian Art Gallery. Standing before a collection of Old Master paintings once again was deeply inspiring. Spending time with these works—observing their craftsmanship, design and timeless beauty—was a reminder of why we chose the path of classical painting in the first place.

Marjan admiring an exquisite Deposition painting Reunited with our beloved Old Masters at the Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide

Another long-held dream finally became reality when we visited Hahndorf and, in particular, The Cedars, the home and studio of the great Australian landscape painter Hans Heysen.

The Studio of the great Australian landscape painter Hans Heysen in Hahndorf, Adelaide Hills.

Walking through Heysen's studio was a genuinely moving experience. The scent of oil paint and timber still lingered in the room, while soft daylight streamed through the skylight exactly as it had during his lifetime. It felt less like a museum and more as though the artist had simply stepped outside for a morning cup of tea and would return to his easel at any moment. For painters, these quiet places carry a special kind of presence that words can scarcely describe.

The Cedars, home and art studio of the great Australian Master: Hans Heysen

Eventually, we arrived in Ballarat and settled into temporary accommodation while searching for a place to call home. Those first weeks were filled with inspections, unpacking, planning and imagining what our next studio might become.

Ron in the beautiful Montsalvat, Eltham, VIC

Today, we are delighted to say that we have finally settled into our new home. Our studio is gradually taking shape, the easels are back in place, brushes are once again covered in paint, and the familiar rhythm of daily work has returned.

One of the greatest joys of living in Victoria is the opportunity to make regular trips to Melbourne. The National Gallery of Victoria has quickly become an important source of inspiration, allowing us to spend time with works by the Old Masters whenever we need to recharge creatively. Having such a remarkable collection within easy reach is something we have dreamed about for many years.

Ancient Rome exhibition in Melbourne Museum

Looking back, the move demanded a great deal of energy and patience, but it has already proven to be one of the most rewarding decisions we have made. We are excited to continue building our artistic life here in Ballarat, creating new paintings, sharing our journey, and welcoming visitors to our new Arcadia Gallery & Studio in the years ahead.

To everyone who has followed and supported our work throughout this transition—thank you. We look forward to sharing many new paintings, stories and adventures with you from our new home.