Eric Smith: Rediscovering the Legacy of a Vanished Australian Artist

In a poignant retrospective titled "Eric Smith: The Metaphysics of Paint," the Macquarie University Art Gallery will showcase the unseen works of the late Australian artist Eric Smith from June 19 to August 1, 2025. This exhibition marks the first major showcase of Smith's art since his death in 2017, highlighting his religious paintings and abstract masterpieces that have largely remained hidden from public view.

Eric Smith, born in 1919, gained widespread acclaim during his lifetime, winning three prestigious Archibald Prizes and playing a significant role in the emergence of Australian abstract expressionism. His career was catalyzed by his triumph in 1956 when he first garnered national attention with his work, "The Scourged Christ." However, following the death of his long-time gallerist Rudy Komon in 1982, Smith’s public presence dwindled. As David Taylor, an art collector and patron of Smith, noted, "Eric's art career died with him" as Smith lost crucial connections to the art world.

Smith’s artistic journey was characterized by a relentless pursuit of expression, enabling him to traverse various forms and styles throughout his career. His early religious works were heavily influenced by Fauvist painter Georges Rouault, while his later abstract pieces reflected philosophical explorations of the sublime, reminiscent of artists like Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman. According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, an art historian at the University of Sydney, Smith's commitment to self-improvement led him to destroy over half of his artistic output, which he deemed unworthy of his vision. "He was a perfectionist who continuously sought to elevate his craft," explained Dr. Johnson.

The upcoming exhibition will feature significant pieces from Smith's oeuvre, including the abstract painting "Untitled (Fool's Gold)" from 2004, and the evocative portrait "Portrait of Diane" from 1998, which showcases his skill in portraiture, noted by writer and critic Paul McGillick as a testament to Smith's status as one of Australia’s most visionary portraitists. "Despite the absence of exhibitions, Smith’s dedication to painting remained unwavering; it was the process that truly mattered to him," said his daughter Barbara Smith, who manages his legacy.

The retrospective aims to rectify the neglect of Smith’s work over the past decades and offers a critical opportunity for audiences to engage with the breadth of his artistic contributions. As Barbara Smith affirmed, "I’m sure Dad would have been extremely excited and honoured" by this recognition of his life's work. The exhibition not only celebrates Smith’s artistic achievements but also prompts a reevaluation of the factors leading to the obscurity of significant artists in the modern art landscape.

The significance of this exhibition extends beyond mere nostalgia; it serves as a reminder of the fragility of an artist's legacy. As art institutions and galleries continue to evolve, the story of Eric Smith illustrates the importance of sustained representation and advocacy for artists, ensuring that their works are accessible and appreciated by future generations. Thus, "Eric Smith: The Metaphysics of Paint" seeks to honor the profound impact of a once-celebrated artist whose contributions to Australian art deserve renewed recognition and appreciation.