Ross Paterson holds dear the memories of his younger, 15-year-old self, peddling towards scenic landscapes to paint.
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With a canvas snug under his arm and a box of paints bouncing on his handlebars, he immersed himself in the creative freedom of painting outdoors.
“I used to ride to places like the railway station, and old buildings and places where there were old trucks,” Ross said.
“All that sort of old industrial sort of paraphernalia. Things that were interesting and had many shapes. It was great.”
Hooked on Australian landscapes from an early age, after being inspired by beautiful paintings in an encyclopedia his mother had brought home, Ross knew his artistic talents were worth pursuing.
“I remember looking at them and thinking, ‘Wow, look at that’, and from that moment, I became hooked,” Ross said.
“I was inspired by these artists and their works in books to get outside and paint. Every chance I got; I would go down to Melbourne to visit the Victorian Art Gallery. Artists like Streeton, Roberts, and Heysen, who painted on location, really motivated me.
“Back then, most people became tradies or bankers, not artists, but I distinctly remember telling my parents that’s what I wanted to be.”
After this pivotal conversation, Ross dressed up, went to Melbourne, and successfully applied for a teaching scholarship with the education department.
That was over 50 years ago, marking the beginning of his professional journey into the world of art.
While refining his skills and cultivating a distinctive style known for its energetic and impressionistic qualities, Ross also gained experience at a printing establishment before transitioning to becoming an art teacher in Shepparton.
However, in 1994, he decided to leave teaching behind to fully commit to his career as a professional artist.
Today, his vibrant and expressive paintings have garnered widespread recognition, making him a household name in the art world.
“You’ve got to really work hard, and I did. You have to push that talent and know which direction to exploit it,” he said.
“You never stop learning, and that’s something I discovered from an early age.”
Ross’ work explores themes of nature, landscapes, and the Australian outback, capturing the essence and spirit of the land with bold colours and dynamic brushwork.
Watercolour, oil, and pastel are his preferred mediums, and his paintings often depict sweeping vistas, rugged terrains, and the play of light across natural forms.
In just two hours, he can complete a watercolour painting on location.
“I’ve always been drawn to watercolour because it presents a challenge and my own unique style is what I’m known for internationally,” Ross said.
“I love painting outdoors, capturing tonal values, synthesising shapes, and transitioning from light to dark, as well as warm and cool colours.
“There is nothing better than painting in the open air.”
Over the years, Ross has exhibited extensively both in Australia and internationally, gaining recognition for his ability to evoke mood and atmosphere on paper and canvas.
His artworks are held in private and public collections, cementing his reputation as a significant figure in contemporary Australian art.
Additionally, he has taught and inspired artists worldwide. Now in his 70s, he continues to find joy in life’s simple pleasures, occasionally teaching while still focusing on painting outdoors.
“I’m still here,” he said with a chuckle.
"It’s been great. I feel very fortunate to have been able to pursue my passion and accomplish what I have.
“I don’t do quite as much as I used to, but I still love and enjoy it.”
This article originally featured in the inaugural Heart the Art magazine. To read the full feature, head to https://www.sheppnews.com.au/features-and-magazines/heart-the-art/
Ross Patterson
okapaterson@bigpond.com
(03) 5831 1842