Biography

Rex Backhaus-Smith is one of Queensland’s most innovative artists, bringing to art lovers his own special feelings and glimpses of a land he so obviously loves. Born in Queensland, as an Australian artist he displays an exciting and individual facet of watercolour painting, interpreting the colours and forms of a compelling landscape.

Backhaus-Smith is a fulltime professional artist of international standing. Some 30 of his paintings have been reproduced as collectible prints. International publishers, Bodley Head of London commissioned him to do a series of Australiana. Two of these became award winners. In association with John Keeble Winn, he has published a series of 5 limited edition books and has authored a number of his own also.

Throughout his painting career Backhaus-Smith has had more than 15 overseas study tours which have included many of Europe’s major art centres. Since 1961, he has had over 50 solo exhibitions and over 70 group and joint exhibitions, both within Australia and internationally, with major Australian exhibitions held in Brisbane, Canberra, Caloundra, Noosa and Maleny.