Sir Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith;Sir Matthew Smith

Place: Manchester

Born: 1879

Death: 1959

Biography:

Early Life and Training

Sir Matthew Smith

, a renowned British painter, was born on October 22, 1879, in Halifax, Yorkshire. He initially studied design at the Manchester School of Art and later attended the Slade School of Art in London. Under the guidance of Henri Matisse in Paris, Smith developed an interest in Fauvism, a style characterized by its emphasis on bold colors and energetic brushwork.

Artistic Style and Notable Works

Smith's artistic style was marked by his use of vibrant, unnatural colors and lush brushwork. His work often featured nudes, still-life compositions, and landscapes, showcasing his mastery of color and form. Some notable works include:

Still Life with Apples, a captivating oil on canvas piece that demonstrates Smith's skill in capturing the play of light and color.
The Garden at Les Lauves, a Cubist-inspired work that showcases Smith's experimentation with geometric forms and abstract concepts.
Contrasted Forms, a Tubism piece that highlights Smith's innovative approach to color and composition.

Museum Collections and Exhibitions

Smith's work can be found in various museums, including the UCL Art Museum and the Tate Britain. His paintings have been exhibited at numerous institutions, such as the Barbican Art Gallery in London. A large group of his works was showcased at the Venice Biennale in 1950.

Awards and Legacy

Smith was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1949 and was knighted in 1954. His contributions to British art have been recognized through various exhibitions, including a major retrospective at the Barbican Art Gallery in 1983.