Grace Cossington Smith

Place: Neutral Bay

Born: 1892

Death: 1984

Biography:

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

, a pivotal figure in the history of Australian modernist painting, was born on April 20, 1892, in Neutral Bay, Sydney. She was the second of five children to London-born solicitor Ernest Smith and his wife Grace, née Fisher, daughter of the rector of Cossington in Leicestershire.

Artistic Education and Influences

From 1910 to 1911, Smith studied drawing with Antonio Dattilo Rubbo, a foundational influence on her early work. Her subsequent travels to England (1912-1914) exposed her to the works of Watteau in Berlin and further solidified her interest in modernist theories upon her return to Sydney.

Pioneering Post-Impressionism in Australia

Smith's The Sock Knitter (1915), arguably Australia's first post-Impressionist painting, marked a significant milestone in her career. Adopting the middle name "Cossington" in 1920, she continued to innovate with her characteristic square brush strokes and bright unblended colors.

Notable Works and Exhibitions

• Kuringai Avenue (1943), a vibrant example of her Sydney landscapes.
• Fruit in the Window (1957), showcasing her mastery of still life compositions.
• The Lacquer Room (1936), arguably her most famous painting, exemplifying her unique style.

Smith's work was greatly respected by fellow artists Roland Wakelin and Roy de Maistre. A major retrospective exhibition of her work, touring Australia in 1973, solidified her place in Australian art history.

Explore More with Wikioo.org

• Discover Smith's pioneering spirit alongside other modernist artists on Pop Art and Beyond: Navigating Contemporary Styles with Wikioo.org
• View her works, including The Lacquer Room (1936), in the context of Australian modernism at Grace Cossington Smith | Wikioo.org
• Learn more about her life and influences on WikiArt.org, a comprehensive resource for art enthusiasts.

Conclusion

's trailblazing career not only introduced post-Impressionism to Australia but also left an indelible mark on the country's modernist landscape. Her legacy, now accessible through various platforms, including Wikioo.org, continues to inspire and educate art enthusiasts worldwide.