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Sydney Ure Smith
Potts Point Sydney Australia

1939

$3,719.43
£2,750
€3,357.57
CA$5,303.89
A$5,438.25
CHF 3,098.52
MX$69,224.29
NOK 35,591.12
SEK 37,134.37
DKK 25,098.54

About the Item

Sydney Ure Smith O.B.E. 1887-1949, was an English born Australian Arts publisher and part time painter, but did not exhibit his own works. He studied pencil and ink drawing at the Ashton School of Art where he also learnt etching. This picture is inscribed on the reverse and bears a Sydney, Australia, frame maker's label, it also reads that it is a gift to Margaret ( Preston ). This is a conclusion of study into the biographies of Sydney Smith and Margaret Preston who had a long established affection for art and each other. They communicated throughout the period when Preston moved from Macquaire Street, Sydney, to the outback where she extended her range of still life art. Smith and Preston lived on the same road in Sydney, Preston lived in a colonial type house and Smith lived virtually opposite in a small block of flats overlooking Potts Point. It is our suggestion that this picture was drawn and painted by Smith as a gift to Margaret Preston upon her return to Sydney, and probably painted from her garden. This picture was presented upon her return, this particular conclusion has been disputed by those that are supposed to know better and yet fail to understand the deep affection between Preston and Smith, where Smith promoted Margaret Preston when there was no- one else to do so, he had complete faith in her ability to succeed which she managed, it is a true story of the love of art. This picture is signed, lower left, and has a self explanatory inscription to the reverse side. I have included an alternative biography of the artist. Sydney Ure Smith (1888–1949) was a pivotal figure in Australian art, best known as a master etcher and the country’s most influential publisher of the early 20th century. He excelled in detailed architectural drawings and etchings. His work famously captured the changing landscapes of "Old Sydney."Style: He favoured a traditional, precise aesthetic over modernism. He founded this landmark journal in 1916. The publication gave Australian artists a platform to reach a wider audience. He also launched this lifestyle magazine, which shaped Australian taste and design. He established his own publishing house in 1939 to produce high-quality art books. He served as president for over 20 years, championing local talent. He was a long-time trustee of the New South Wales Art Gallery influencing acquisitions and exhibitions. He is often credited with "professionalising" the Australian art world by bridging the gap between artists and the public. He was often called the "unofficial prime minister" of Australian art because of his immense power and connections within the industry. Sydney Ure Smith and Margaret Preston shared one of the most productive and enduring professional friendships in Australian art history. Smith was Preston's greatest champion, and she was arguably his most famous "discovery" and collaborator. Smith used his magazine, Art in Australia, to launch Preston into the national spotlight. In 1927, Smith dedicated an entire issue of his journal to her work, a rare honour that cemented her status as a leading modernist. While Smith was a traditionalist, Preston’s bold, modern woodcuts pushed him to broaden the scope of what his publications supported. Together, they campaigned for a "National Australian Art," with Preston providing the theory and Smith providing the platform. Preston frequently contributed covers and articles to Smith’s lifestyle magazine, The Home, helping to bring modern design into Australian household. Smith published several high-quality monographs of Preston’s work, which are now highly prized by collectors. Despite their different artistic styles, they were united by a fierce desire to see Australian art respected on the world stage. Their friendship lasted until Smith's death in 1949 it was a lifelong bond. Preston often acknowledged that her commercial and critical success was largely due to Smith's unwavering belief in her talent. Without Smith's publishing power, Preston’s radical style might have remained niche; without Preston’s genius, Smith’s magazines would have lacked the cutting-edge vibrancy she provided. This picture demonstrates their closeness and life long affection for each other.
  • Creator:
    Sydney Ure Smith (1887 - 1949, British)
  • Creation Year:
    1939
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 23 in (58.42 cm)Width: 18.75 in (47.63 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
  • Medium:
    Paper,Watercolor
  • Period:
    1930-1939
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Douglas, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: No. 991stDibs: LU2373215495672

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