THE artist who created Bubbles in the landscape, the 6.4-metre-high spiralling sculpture in Oxley designed to appear like floating bubbles, is behind the new King Valley lettered sign installed on the Oxley roundabout.

The large circular sign, indicating visitors have arrived in the King Valley wine region, was designed and manufactured by Alexander Knox.

Tourism North East chief executive officer Bess Nolan-Cook said the concept for a King Valley gateway sign was originally developed as part of the Activating King Valley Master Plan.

But she said the final design (of the sign in the roundabout itself) was one of many artistic installations commissioned as part of the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Enhancement Project, led by Tourism North East in collaboration with the Rural City of Wangaratta, a project which received $8.5 million in funding support from the Victorian Government.

Following the installation of Bubbles in the landscape in October last year, the King Valley Tourism Association (KVTA) expressed its frustration over a lack of signage at the site.

KVTA president Karen Barber said at the time while they respected the artwork itself, they had been led to believe the installation would clearly identify arrival at the gateway to the King Valley.

Asked what prompted the new addition in Oxley, Ms Nolan-Cook said "the landmark design was driven by a combination of practical, aesthetic and economic considerations."

"We are thrilled with the new King Valley gateway sign," she said.

"Not only does it provide a striking geographical marker for those visiting the valley, it is a wonderful addition to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail experience."

The KVTA also said it was very happy with the sign; the organisation now lobbying to have more wayfinding signs on the approach to the roundabout, indicating where visitors can to turn and the attractions which can be found in the upper King Valley.