Ross Bowden is an Australian cultural anthropologist.

He did his first degree, in philosophy, at Monash University, Melbourne, and trained in anthropology at Oxford University from which he holds masters and doctoral degrees.

His primary research interests are in art and aesthetics, both in the Pacific and cross-culturally.

He taught anthropology for a number of years at La Trobe University, Melbourne.

Ross is the author of several books on Oceanic art and New Guinea. He has two new books in press: one on warfare and history in Yalaku society, and one on creativity in art cross-culturally. Additional information about these two books will be provided when they appear.