Meet Tania - The Artist Behind Our Newest Tailored Whisky Label

Meet Tania Chanter, the talented Yarra Valley artist behind the newest artwork ‘Afternoon’s Tender Kiss’, featured on our Tailored Whisky bottles. Her work is inspired by the feeling of the landscape and the emotions it stirs.

Tell us a bit about your journey into art

My journey into art didn't begin with a grand plan. In fact, I never thought I had an artistic bone in my body. Everything changed one afternoon when my eldest son, who had become completely hooked on watching Bob Ross paint, asked if I'd join him and his brother for a painting session. It was meant to be nothing more than a fun afternoon together, but by the time we finished, something had shifted. My boys were happy to leave it as a one-off experience, but I couldn't stop thinking about it. A creative spark had been lit, and I found myself wanting to paint again... and again.

How did you find your way to becoming an abstract artist in the Yarra Valley?

That unexpected afternoon became the beginning of a completely new chapter in my life. As I developed my own style, I found myself increasingly drawn to abstract landscapes. Living in the Yarra Valley has had a huge influence on my work. I'm surrounded by rolling hills, changing seasons, native bushland and beautiful light, and those elements naturally find their way into my paintings.

The Australian wilderness is famously diverse. What is your favourite thing about capturing our unique landscape in your artwork?

What I love most is trying to capture the feeling of the Australian landscape rather than simply painting what it looks like. It's the incredible textures, earthy colours and ever-changing moods that inspire me. One day the bush can feel soft and peaceful, and the next it can feel wild, rugged and full of energy.

I love layering paint to create texture and depth, allowing the landscape to almost be felt as much as seen. My hope is that each painting evokes an emotional connection, reminding people of a place they've been, a moment they've experienced, or simply the beauty and uniqueness of the Australian wilderness.

What typically sparks your creative process?

Most of my paintings begin with a feeling rather than a particular location. I'll often be inspired by a moment I've experienced while travelling through the Australian landscape. It might be the way the light catches the earth at the end of the day, the colours after rain, or the quiet stillness that makes you stop and take it all in. Those moments stay with me long after I've left, and they eventually find their way onto the canvas.

What was the specific inspiration behind this piece - Afternoon’s Tender Kiss?

‘Afternoon's Tender Kiss’ was inspired by the extraordinary beauty of Australia's arid landscape. I wanted to capture that magical time late in the afternoon when the sun gently brushes across the land, bringing the rich reds, pinks and ochres to life. The stark white gums, the endless horizon and the soaring wedge-tailed eagle all speak to the resilience and quiet majesty of the Australian outback.

For me, the painting is about more than the landscape itself. It's about that feeling of peace, space and wonder that only Australia can evoke. If someone looks at it and feels as though they've been transported there, even for a moment, then I've achieved what I set out to do.

When you’re winding down after a long day in the studio, what is your go-to cocktail or spirit of choice?

When it comes to winding down I can't go past a good gin and tonic. It's simple, refreshing and the perfect way to mark the end of a day in the studio. After spending hours immersed in colour and creativity, it's nice to slow down, reflect on the day's painting, and enjoy a quiet moment before the next canvas calls.

Where can people find your work and explore your collections?

You can explore my work through artloversaustralia.com.au, where my collections are available to view and purchase in one place.

You can follow Tania at: https://www.instagram.com/taniachanter/