GREGORY  SMITH                - 2004

Was born in Melbourne in 1957.  Showing early artistic flair, his grandfather bought him a tripod easel for his 12th birthday, and with only a few paints and some scrappy boards, the dream to become an artist had commenced. 

“From an early age my fascination of site has always been as strong influence and through painting and drawing had released the artist from within. Recognising that developing visual knowledge was a means to an end I spent many years studying under established artists such as Max Wilks, Shirley Bourne, and for six years, Graham Moore.

 Today the journey continues through my own teaching.  Since 1990 The Gregory R. Smith School of Painting has developed into a necessary part of many students’ painting lives.  Currently fifty-five students attend weekly classes and many are gaining recognition of their own.

 My principles are based on working in oils, always direct from life, studying the cause and effect of light and dealing with the illusion of the third dimension on canvas.  I became a full time artist in 1989 after having been an artist/draftsman for the MMBW Melbourne for ten years prior.   Also in 1989 I was elected to the   Council of the Victorian Artists Society and have served as Outdoor Convenor ever since; running paint out days and trips throughout Victoria and from time to time  interstate.

 I am known as a tonal realist painter and have been awarded over 100 awards since the mid 80’s.  In 1994 I was honoured with the VAS  Artist Of The Year Award.

Awards have been presented to me for still life, portraiture, landscape, floral and life work including drawing prizes from the early years.

 Running numerous painting demonstrations, lectures, workshops and having judged many art shows throughout Victoria has certainly encouraged and helped many aim for higher levels of visual knowledge.

On several occasions I’ve participated  in ‘Artist in Residence’ programs for secondary colleges.  In 2001 I received the Australia Day Medal from the Moonee Valley Council in recognition of my contribution to the community through the arts.  Painting is my passion and whether it is a portrait commission, a simple floral study or standing out in a storm, I’m at my happiest when standing in front of my easel pushing paint around the canvas.

 My art works can be found in many private and corporate collections in Australia and overseas.  Some include Melbourne University, ANZ Bank, Herald Sun, many Shire collections and the VAS permanent collections.  My works are displayed in Exhibitions throughout Victoria and have been shown in Sydney, Adelaide and London (ROSL).

I have had seventeen solo exhibitions and from time to time have been the feature artist for various events.

My paintings are sought after by people with an understanding of the integrity and truth behind my approach.  To quote Constable; “Truth is beauty and beauty is truth”.