Louis Athol Shmith

Place: Melbourne

Born: 1914

Death: 1990

Biography:

**** Louis Athol Shmith, a renowned Australian photographer, left an indelible mark on the world of photography. Born in Melbourne, Australia, on August 19, 1914, and passing away on October 21, 1990, Shmith's career spanned over six decades, witnessing the evolution of photography as an art form. **

Early Life and Career

Shmith began his photographic journey in the late 1920s, capturing society portraits in his parents' living room. By the end of the 1930s, he had established himself as a respected professional in Melbourne's city center, specializing in fashion illustration. His work embodied a world of grace, glamour, and allure, earning him widespread acclaim.

Notable Contributions

* **Contribution to International Photography**: Shmith played a pivotal role in promoting international photography within Australia, as well as fostering Australian photography on the global stage. * **Fashion Illustration**: He was at the forefront of embracing the 'New Look' and the spirit of post-war recovery in fashion illustration, becoming the most respected professional in this field in Australia. * **Photography Education**: In 1971, Shmith partnered with John Cato to head the Photography Department at Prahran College of Advanced Education.

Artistic Legacy

Shmith's commercial career produced photographs that showcased a world of elegance and allure. His dramatic portraits were widely acclaimed, and his work was collected by major art museums starting from the 1970s. A retrospective of his work was held at the Australian Centre for Photography in 1977.

• Notable Artworks:
**
• Beauty (National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia), a photograph exemplifying Shmith's mastery of capturing the essence of beauty.
• Other notable artworks can be found at Louis Athol Shmith's page on Wikioo.org, showcasing his extensive collection. **

  Awards and Recognition

  * **Order of Australia (1980)**: Shmith was awarded for his services to photography and education, a testament to his dedication and impact on the field.

  • Relevant Links:
  **
  • View Shmith's Photography
  • Wikipedia: Louis Athol Smith
  • Shmith's Artist Page on Wikioo.org **

    Conclusion

    ** Louis Athol Shmith's legacy in photography is a testament to his innovative spirit and artistic vision. Through his work, he continues to inspire generations of photographers and art enthusiasts alike, leaving an enduring mark on the world of photography.