Where Did Artist Eric Smith Go After Winning 3 Archibalds? Discover His Unseen Works!

A Journey Through the Life and Art of Eric Smith

The story of Eric Smith is not just a tale of artistic talent; it is a poignant narrative of recognition, loss, and the quest for meaning in an artist's life. Born in 1919, Smith navigated the turbulent waters of the art world, achieving significant acclaim before fading into obscurity. The upcoming exhibition at the Macquarie University Art Gallery aims to shed light on his impressive body of work and reignite interest in a talent that, despite its brilliance, has remained largely undiscovered since his passing in 2017. This article delves into Smith's life, artistic journey, influences, and the significance of the upcoming exhibition, "Eric Smith: The Metaphysics of Paint."

From Recognition to Obscurity

Eric Smith's artistic journey can be described as one filled with accolades and achievements. His breakthrough moment in 1956, marked by winning the Blake Prize with his striking piece, The Scourged Christ, set the stage for a prolific career. Over the ensuing decades, he became a pivotal figure in Australian abstract expressionism, capturing the attention of critics and collectors alike. Yet, despite his early success, Smith's trajectory took an unexpected turn, leading to his gradual disappearance from the public eye.

The Impact of Rudy Komon

One significant factor in Smith's artistic decline was the death of his gallerist, Rudy Komon, in 1982. Komon was not merely a dealer; he was an influential figure in the Australian art scene, helping to launch the careers of numerous prominent artists. His death left Smith without a key advocate in the art world. As David Taylor, an art collector and patron of Smith's, observed, "Eric's art career died with him." This statement encapsulates the profound impact Komon's absence had on Smith’s visibility and opportunities.

A Modest Man in an Unforgiving World

Smith’s modesty played a crucial role in his fading prominence. Unlike many artists who actively seek out publicity and recognition, Smith was a reserved individual who preferred focusing on his work rather than self-promotion. This humility, while admirable, contributed to his obscurity in the art world as he struggled to connect with new audiences.

The Artistic Process: A Deep Dive into Smith's Work

Despite the decline in his public exposure, Smith continued to work diligently in his studio. His creative process was marked by an unwavering commitment to addressing artistic challenges. Barbara Smith, his daughter and manager of his legacy, described his daily routine as a disciplined regimen of painting from 8 am to 6 pm. This dedication to his craft highlights the intrinsic value Smith placed on the act of creation itself rather than external validation.

Self-Critique and Destruction of Art

Smith's relentless pursuit of perfection led him to be highly self-critical. He often destroyed or repainted pieces that did not align with his vision. This approach resulted in the loss of more than half of his artistic output. This self-critique reflects a broader theme in Smith's life—the quest for artistic integrity and the desire to create works that resonate with deeper truths.

Thematic Influences and Artistic Evolution

Throughout his career, Smith's work evolved significantly, influenced by various artistic movements and personal experiences. His early religious paintings drawn from his Catholic faith reveal a profound engagement with spirituality. The bold colors and dynamic forms in pieces like The Raising of Lazarus and The Scourged Christ are reminiscent of the Fauvist style, particularly the works of Georges Rouault.

The Shift to Abstract Expressionism

As Smith transitioned into abstract expressionism, his work began to reflect a more profound exploration of emotional and existential themes. His later pieces, such as Eternity I and Untitled (Fools Gold), resonate with the explorations of the sublime found in the works of Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman. This shift not only signifies Smith's artistic evolution but also showcases his ability to adapt and innovate within his practice.

Portraiture: A Distinctive Skill

In addition to abstract works, Smith was an accomplished portrait artist. His portraits of notable figures such as Leonard Hessing and Rudy Komon exhibit a unique blend of realism and emotional depth. The luminous Portrait of Diane stands out as a testament to his skill, often described as his own version of the Mona Lisa. This ability to capture the essence of his subjects has led critics like Paul McGillick to regard Smith as one of Australia’s most visionary portraitists.

The Upcoming Exhibition: A Celebration of Legacy

After decades of relative obscurity, Eric Smith's work will finally receive the recognition it deserves through the exhibition titled "Eric Smith: The Metaphysics of Paint." This showcase, set to run from June 19 to August 1 at the Macquarie University Art Gallery, promises to highlight a range of Smith's masterpieces, including many that have never been publicly displayed before.

A New Chapter for Smith's Art

This exhibition is not only a retrospective of Smith's career but also an opportunity for art enthusiasts to engage with the profound themes that underlie his work. Barbara Smith expressed her father's likely excitement at the prospect of such an exhibition, affirming the importance of sharing his legacy with a new generation of art lovers.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Eric Smith

The narrative of Eric Smith serves as a powerful reminder of the complex relationship between artists and the art world. While some may achieve posthumous fame, others, like Smith, may find their work overshadowed by circumstances beyond their control. The upcoming exhibition represents a vital opportunity to rediscover his contributions to Australian art and to appreciate the depth and richness of his creative expressions.

As we anticipate the unveiling of Smith’s work, we are left to ponder the ever-evolving nature of art and the myriad paths an artist may take throughout their career. How many other hidden talents remain undiscovered in the shadows of artistic history? Join us in exploring the fascinating journey of Eric Smith and consider the impact of recognition and legacy in the world of art.

FAQs

Who was Eric Smith?

Eric Smith was an Australian artist known for his major contributions to abstract expressionism and portraiture, with a career spanning several decades. He won numerous prestigious awards, including multiple Archibald and Blake Prizes.

What is the significance of the exhibition "Eric Smith: The Metaphysics of Paint"?

This exhibition is the first major retrospective of Smith’s work since the 1980s and aims to bring attention to his artistic legacy, featuring previously unseen pieces and highlighting his influence on Australian art.

Why did Eric Smith's career decline?

Smith's career declined significantly following the death of his gallerist Rudy Komon, who was instrumental in promoting his work. Additionally, Smith's modest nature and self-critical tendencies contributed to his fading visibility in the art world.

As we reflect on the life and work of Eric Smith, what do you think the art world can do to prevent talented artists from falling into obscurity? #EricSmith #ArtExhibitions #AustralianArt